Written by Denise Gary
Photographs © Robert and Denise Gary
KNTR volunteers are the best! Not only do they work hard but they know how to have a fun time! Thanks to our friends at Bookmans who shouldered the cost, we were able to give our deserving volunteers and supporters a holiday party that was truly a jolly get-together!
Our new little “KNTR House” buzzed with friendly chatting and laughter as everyone enjoyed a beautiful evening.
Bookmans served up some unusual desserts created by Kiki’s Cupcake Service, including special KNTR cupcakes . . .
. . . and pumpkin cake baked in a pumpkin! Kiki’s goodies were incredibly delicious!
The volunteers brought lots of finger foods . . .
. . . and more desserts!
We had several special guests with their family members, including author Janette Rallison (pulling off a nice “steal” in the ornament exchange!) . . .
J.Paul Deeson of Barnes & Noble in Mesa . . .
Tyson Breinholt of Commercial Properties (sporting a fine cap by the end of the party!) . . .
. . . and Joe Boudrie (offering me a cupcake corsage), Linda Zaruches, and Brandy Kuschel of Phoenix Comicon.
Nathan Fillion observed the revelry, bedecked in silver tinsel.
There were smiles.
There were hugs.
There was elvery.
There were cowboy hats.
There were double hats.
There were cold drinks.
There were hot drinks.
There were great drinks!
And then there was the ornament exchange!
There was conniving . . .
. . . stealing . . .
. . . fighting . . .
. . . backstabbing . . .
. . . hoarding . . .
. . . coveting . . .
. . . and teasing!
It was so much FUN!
We are so fortunate to be blessed with such an incredibly talented and hardworking volunteer team, as well as many kind and generous supporters. We appreciate not only the sacrifices they make on behalf of our organization but the joy they bring to Kids Need to Read, as well.
Thank you, Lori Cothrun and Bookmans, for assisting us in celebrating a successful year and for your continuous support year-round.
Now, about the cherished ornament that was ruthlessly stripped from my delicate hands. . . .
Photo Gallery: Holly Jolly KNTR Party
