The Lemonade Stand

We all know that Bennett has a whole lot of Andy in him, and being a savvy businessman is just one of those similar traits.  So, B had this idea...  He loves our sweet Ella, and wanted to raise some coin to support JDRF - the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.  So, the lemonade stand was created one warm August day.

Bennett gathered the necessary materials, prepared signage and practiced what he would say to costumers.  We set up at the end of our street, because he knew there was more traffic.  He brought down music, so Harper could dance - and bring in more costumers?? 

 He spoke kindly to each passerby, and told them of his cause.  I was surprised how many cars drove by and simply donated to the stand - no lemonade necessary.  And, almost every single person left a "tip".  At the end of Day 1,  the stand was open 3.5 hours. Bennett had earned $56, over half way to his $100 goal.

 

This entire process made Andy and me incredibly proud.  Not once, did Bennett even mention keeping the money for himself.  He made a plan, set a goal and was determined to raise money to help find a cure.  

 So determined, in fact, on Day 2 Bennett was out and ready at the corner by 8am.  It was a beautiful, warm Saturday.  Much of the neighborhood had left for the weekend, or already stopped by the stand.  Business was much slower than Friday afternoon, yet Bennett intended to reach is $100 goal.

We took a break for lunch and a rest.  Before the second shift began, Bennett ran to get the mail.  Sitting in the mailbox, was an envelope.  The outside read, "I missed you at the stand, and want to support your cause.  Good work, Kid!"  it was signed, "A Friend".  This friend not only donated $50, but it was enough to put Bennett over his goal!  He was so excited - and very curious...

Of course, I shared the pics and story on Facebook.  Gotta love the power of social media - because not only did we get an anonymous donation from a friend, we got snail-mail donations from people we know and love!!  A huge thanks to T, and Sheila and the Grands.  With all those mailbox surprises, B crushed his goal.

That weekend, we were able to see Ella, and give her the collection.  She beamed.  While this experience was so memorable for us, and such an incredible lesson on character, I really hope we don't need to have many more stands for JDRF.  Hopefully very soon, we will have a cure.