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Today, my family attended a wonderful event at Hills and Dales. If you are not familiar, Hills & Dales, a not-for-profit human services organization. They provide services to children and young adults with severe and profound mental and physical disabilities throughout Eastern Iowa.
I would like to personally thank my wife Teri Connely, Vicki Leonard and all of the folks who work in law enforcement, public safety and the fire department. Law enforcement, public safety and the fire department protect and serve us. You are a group of people who deserve so much and sometimes get so little. Today, I watched you at your best- thank you.
Teri and Vicki run the local chili cook-off every year in Dubuque. It's hard work and it takes a lot out of you. On a day like today, it means so much. People may not know what you do or how you do it. As you watch the children and families smile, know that you gave them something amazing. The chili cook-off has raised so much money to help organizations like the Maria House and recently Hills and Dales.
The money raised is significant. It has translated into buying a van for transportation and a new playground. We can't thank you enough.
To the families and children at Hills & Dales, thank you for opening your hearts to show us what true love really is. I admire what you do and how you do it.
To the staff at Hills and Dales, you amaze us. I love watching you work. It's not work because you love it and it shows. I wish that I could repay you for the awesomeness you display. Maybe someday I can better:)
This Christmas season there is so much to be thankful for. Check out the pictures from today (at the bottom I have four tips for getting into the spirit):
The awesome Joe Berger and the rest of Santa's bagpipers!
This little guy was SOOOO excited to see Mr. and Mrs. Claus!
He had to tell everyone about how awesome it was to see them!
The BEST escort!
Christmas at Hills and Dales is AMAZING! The LOVE is pure! Thanks Vicki and Teri!
Here are four ways you can get in spirit:
1. If you run,
- Try connecting with Who I run for (https://www.facebook.com/groups/irunformichael)
- Download charity miles on iTunes or Android. It's a great way to raise money by running. There are fantastic charities featured there like the Wounded Warrior Project (@wwpinc), Michael J Fox Foundation (@MichaelJFoxOrg), Special Olympics (@SpecialOlympics), Autism Speaks (@austismspeaks), (@TeamRWB), etc.
2. Donate some presents to Toys for Tots, adopt a family at a local church, etc.
3. Write a Christmas card to a lonely person at a elderly center or even a friend you haven't connected with in awhile. It's amazing how a small thing like this can be HUGE.
4. Gather yourself, friends or little ones and go out Christmas caroling. Spread the cheer the old fashioned way.
