Giving my Best

his year especially I decided to give back big in my community of Chester where our family has flourished for forty years, both the real and the cloth. Who are favorites?

First Rotary, who gave generously to two daughters for college and exchange programs aboard, had a Hope Doll for their annual silent auction. The Whiting Library which was always a favorite haunt for my girls growing up sold tickets for Bonnie Book Doll who was won by a former Chester resident, a librarian, too. The Springfield Humane Society who blessed us with the famous cat, Silvio, raffled a Camilla. And the Gordon Scholarship honoring friend Heath Gordon, musician and artist got my idea of Heath who is in his mother's company.

Now Aaron, the Fireman, is about to be introduced around our wonderful Chester, where local partners will show off this creation commemorating the memory of young firefighter, Aaron Douglas, to benefit the small but mighty Chester Fire Department. Today I was blessed to meet Aaron's momma. She loves this boy. The list of hosts will be posted weekly on our website Special Events Page. At most locations one can purchase a single $5 raffle ticket. If you want more tickets and better chances to win Aaron, contact us directly. He will be my guest at St. Luke's Christmas Tea on December sixth. Let's rock, Aaron.

Thanks for all your interest in our dolls this year. Here we remind you the geese are gone, but through November we are offering our Flying Off the Shelves Sale - 10 % off on any inventory doll ready to go. We counted 39, so listen to Gretchen Goose. Add a warm addition to your home or special person in your life. Happy Turkey Time.

By the way, the inspiration for the eyes came from a winter photograph husband Lew took of a snow-ridden Chester fire hydrant.