The toe of the stocking

When I was a kid, my family hung stockings on the mantle on Christmas Eve. Big socks, nailed above the fireplace. Like in the movies. Next morning, my brother, two sisters and I would race straight to the stockings, dump out the contents, and dig down to the toe where we knew we would find the best of the loot we would receive that day. Everything else in the sock was supposed to be a bit of a tease, extracted one item at a time, leading up to the finale – the big present – but we knew the real treasure was in the toe, and it took us only nano-seconds to get there. I suppose I shouldn’t have fond memories of such avarice, but when I remember that, I smile.

If your family celebrates Christmas, maybe you have similar memories. Maybe, like me, you’ve kept some of the old traditions alive. Whether its in the toe of the stocking, at the foot of the bed, under the tree, or even in the tree, you may have a special place for the best present. What are you going to put there this year?

Socially responsible giving is something that is growing in popularity. Being socially responsible is sensible and mature, but it is not always a lot of fun – and Christmas should be fun. What could be more fun than cheering on your home team – the Vancouver Canucks? The Canucks are second in their division. They’re fourth overall in goals scored. They are a lot of fun to watch… but if you’re going to put out that kind of money, shouldn’t it be for a good cause? What if you could support a good cause AND have a lot of fun?

Volunteer Resources VA is selling Vancouver Canucks tickets to raise money for patient comforts, volunteer recognition and more. Follow the link to the 2015-16 CANUCKS ORDER FORM. There are still plenty of tickets to lots of games. Fill out the form and email it to vhvolunteer@vch.ca

Spend your hard-earned dollars in a way that makes a difference. Have a really great time. Put something in the toe of their stockings that will put smiles on their faces and leave lasting memories.

Questions? Email the manager of Volunteer Resources VA at greg.terpenning@vch.ca