Tuesday night we ventured with our 11th grade Bible study girls to Hope Lodge for the annual dirty santa Christmas party with the residents. I had never heard of Hope Lodge until a few weeks ago, so for those of you who are as curious as I was, Hope Lodge is offiliated with the American Cancer Society and offers free lodging to cancer patients and their families who are being treated at hospitals here in Birmingham. Cancer treatment can be financially straining and such a burden for those who are far from home and suffering. At the lodge, patients and their families are able to receive support from the other residents, as well as the staff and volunteers.
Each year the Bible study girls take one night of the week and bring gifts, snacks, smiles, and tacky Christmas attire to Hope Lodge. It was such a humbling experience to spend time with these people--to hear where they're from and mostly to just see their faces light up and forget the real reason why they're there. It was a special night and I am thankful for the opportunity to have met them.
P.S. If you don't subscribe to Southern Living, then check out this recipe for Flourless Peanut Butter Chocolate-Chip Cookies
here I made them for the party--they are divine and super easy!!
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