The anniversary of September 11th brought communities together in wonderful acts of service including many congregations across the nation from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, otherwise known as Mormons.  I heard of a variety of things going on – people collecting food to help those in need, park clean-ups, and one very special to me that helped my family.  A stake in Bellevue, WA hosted a back to school drive including not only clothing and supplies, but services such as haircuts and photographs for families who have a hard time affording them.

This was a tremendous blessing for me as our picture day is approaching and I was trying to figure out how to give my boys haircuts they wouldn’t hate and afford picture day.   A class photo alone is $9.95 and of course, I would like photos of my children – not just their classes.  Times three children, the minimum is $30.00.   I really wanted 8×10′s, but those packages are $30 each.  Add that to the $200 plus I already spent on school supplies and it’s quite unaffordable.  I was so grateful for these services and they even took pictures of my 2-year-old daughter who isn’t even in school yet.  Yes, they were professional quality.

My two oldest boys were thrilled to find leather jackets, which I didn’t even know they liked and a local reporter was drawn to my 8-year-old (I’m guessing it was his big blue eyes) and requested permission to publish his picture.  You can read the full story here.   My children left so happy with books, clothing, backpacks, and more.

To make the day even more meaningful, we attended another event where people put together care packages for troops and wrote notes of support to them.  I want my kids to always respect this day and remember those who made such sacrifices to protect the citizens of our country.  I fear September 11th will one day become a holiday that’s just another day off from work and school.  I hope it will always be a day where we serve others.