Each year Big Couple Lynne Parsons and Ernie Giannini have generously opened their Morning Glory Farm to share with Big Brothers Big Sisters volunteer Bigs and their Littles. It was a fine day to celebrate the spirit of Christmas with children and caring adults in a beautiful natural setting.

The weather cooperated to allow a guided nature walk prior to the festivities. Parsons’ and Giannini’s Little Brother Russell led the group through the winter woods for a Tree Walk Game. It was more daunting to identify trees with no foliage, but Little Sister Nathalie and her Big Sister Sue Anderson prevailed and won the challenge.

Refreshments were then served in the lakeside pavilion where warmth from the fireplace kept guests comfortable. Outside, a bonfire beckoned the delighted Littles to roast marshmallows for making s’mores. Games were played outdoors, while indoors Littles and Bigs made Christmas crafts to take home for gifts.

A Seasonal Assistance Grant, awarded to BBBS by the Polk County Community Foundation, provided goods for the party and gifts for the children, but primarily supplied generous Bi-Lo grocery gift cards for the families of each Little in the Big Brothers Big Sisters community and school programs. This grant ensured that the children served by Big Brothers Big Sisters had food during the holiday season.

The Polk County Community Foundation awards these seasonal grants to local nonprofit organizations to help support individuals and families who may need assistance during the holiday season, improving the quality of life for recipients in our community. This is the fourth year that Big Brothers Big Sisters has had the opportunity to share the good fortune of these special funds, benefiting many families and alleviating stress during the holidays.