It was the last day before winter break and spirits were soaring high in Mrs. Blahut’s  fourth grade classroom at Cedar Hill Elementary.  In lieu of a traditional class party, Mrs. Blahut’s students were wrapping presents for those less fortunate.  In addition to numerous schoolwide efforts, such as the holiday giving tree, hurricane Sandy relief, and acknowledgement of service men and women, each student brought in a new gift for a child who would be spending the holidays in the hospital.  The students were very thoughtful when purchasing each gift making sure that it could be enjoyed by someone in a hospital bed.  Legos, plush toys, dolls, small cars/trucks and board games were popular items.  With the help of class moms, the gifts were collected and supplies were provided to wrap each present during the class holiday party.  After a quick lesson in wrapping, the fourth graders sprung into action.  They wrapped carefully and thoughtfully making sure that each present was tagged for the gender and age of the appropriate recipient.  Keeping it local, all gifts were delivered to Chilton Hospital on Christmas Eve. 

At the culmination of the party, the students reflected on the large pile of gifts that would brighten the day of an ill child.  Nicole proclaimed, "People that are in the hospital deserve presents for being brave while they're healing. It made me feel wonderful and proud to wrap presents for those in need. Wrapping presents is an experience I will share with everyone and never forget ❤!!!”  Shayna was heard to say, “It made me feel really good to wrap gifts for the children’s hospital.  Giving to others is a rewarding feeling especially to those who are sick.  It was also really fun to learn how to wrap presents, too.”  Everyone agreed with Natalia’s sentiment who loved the idea of giving a little something to kids that have an illness to make them forget their ill health.  With a special thanks to the class moms for making this happen, Mrs. Blahut’s class once again experienced the gift of giving.  “I am so proud of you,” Mrs. Blahut concluded at the end of the party.  “You put others before yourselves, and you did it joyfully and from the heart.  Take this feeling into the new year and continue spreading joy to others.  You are making a difference in our world.”