Being a blogger often brings a lot of bonuses. Most often, they come in packages of fun things to review or events to attend. Occasionally, it even brings a paycheck. But last week, I got something that won't come in a brown box and won't be punched like a ticket. Though it sometimes is carried; carried in hearts and little red kettles.

Angel Tree

You may have heard of the Salvation Army's  Angel Tree program. I know I had. But last week, I got to "see" it. After months of families signing up, matching those families with volunteers, sorting gifts, and arranging pickup, Monday was D-Day -- Ribbon Cutting for Angel Tree pickup.I was invited to be there and what a treat! 2400 families were served this year and sadly, they still had to turn people away. but take that number in -- 2400. Let me tell you, they have this down to an art.This is the warehouse.That's thousands of gifts people! They are color coded based on which of the three days the family is coming. And the list is checked twice with the family's name and number of gifts posted in several places because we don't want any of Santa's elves getting home without all of the gifts!But more impressive by the system that would make St. Nick himself a little jealous, is actually seeing someone receive the packages that will brighten the holiday for their children. This Elvia and she told me that it would have been a very lean Christmas without the Angel Tree. Instead, she is now bringing home two huge sacks and a boy's bike! Seeing what this program is doing for this woman and her family? Wow. Just wow.Now the season for Angel Tree is over but that doesn't mean you can't help. The Salvation Army Angel Tree depends on families being adopted, yes, but sometimes things on the list are missed. When that happens, the SA buys what is missing so the family is not disappointed. Cash donations, therefore, are always appreciated. Plus the Salvation Army provides services to the homeless all year. And the money stays local so what you share in Austin will go to help your neighbors!So if you see a Red Kettle, share your change. You might just find 2400 and 1 reasons to smile!

Merry Christmas!