By Lulu

Rick D puts a lot of energy into his yearly toy drive which benefits needy families in Volusia county. I was asked to come down and photo families visiting with Santa, Mrs. Claus and an adorable elf. The children’s reaction ranged from fear to pure joy. One adorable child told Santa to give their brother his presents because he was sick. Last year a beautiful little girl asked for work boots for her father. And so, each smile photographed on these kids faces was priceless. Thanks to Denise, and the “Claus” family, Rick D and his volunteers and to every person in the world that shares their hard-earned cash to make some child or family’s Christmas! I love the saying I read this year: Christmas is more about opening hearts than presents…and I really felt that at First Turn.