One of those shows.

So a few days ago I came across the story of a family that lives about 5 miles from me. They had lost their home in a fire. There was great fortune that the family was not home when the fire took place but they lost everything, including their 2 dogs. The family consisted of 5 kids and 2 adults. The fire happened on the oldest boy's 16 birthday. The only thing salvaged from the fire was his Ipod. The family had been going through a rough patch which involved many trials and hardships, including the father having his leg amputated 6 months prior after 20+ surgeries on his knee. They had been helping out a fellow family member and her son whom had also fallen on hard times and was staying with them while getting back on her feet. She also lost everything in the fire.

I contacted the niece whom was trying to organize clothing and toy donations for the kids. I had so much stuff piled up from our pending move and spring cleaning that I hadn't gotten around to donating. I realized right that moment that this was the reason for my procrastinating. It was meant for a greater difference. During our arrangement making the niece began to enquire about our services. I then shared the story with my other half, Mike. He was also moved by the story and it was a rather short discussion that confirmed both of our desires to offer a performance for the family.

So we have just returned from 2 & 1/2 hours of magic, balloons, and face painting. The banquet room was reserved at his weekly Wednesday gig, and I tagged along. I can not express the joy and thanks we saw nor the difference that came over the family during the get together. I was repeatedly informed by everyone in attendance that it was the first time since the fire that they were smiling and laughing. We were thanked by everyone in attendance. I painted everyone, adults included and can not express the emotions that coursed through me when the dad started thanking me while sitting in my chair and broke into tears.

I believe tonight was the best gig I ever had. I didn't make anything, NO wait I did. I made a lot of new friends, AND I made a difference. Plus the family is requesting to book us for a birthday in a couple months, and a baby shower for the member that was organizing everything.

You. Absolutely. Rock.


You've got a big heart and that does make the difference these days!

Thanks Lizzie.

Definitely an emotionally charged evening. The change that came over that family was so amazing! I am still trying not to cry.

Very cool. So glad you had a good time and made so many happy.

(((hugs))) to you both.

Thank you for sharing. What a wonderful experience.

It was awesome! Of course Being so emotionally charged by the dad I ended up doing the colors backwards on his panda. Caught it halfway through the face! I definitely feal for him trying to get the paint out of his beard!

Often times experiences like that are worth far more than any amount of money one could ever pay you. What a treasure you are in your community.

Tearing up over here! Thanks for sharing that wonderful story!

The family is still talking about it and sending thanks. We are still looking at things we can do. My kids are cleaning out their toy boxes and book shelves. Mike and I are looking at trying to put together a fundraiser night for them. Of course we leave Monday to meet with the custody evaluator in CA for my son so it will have to wait till I get back.

So amazing!!

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE your giving heart!!!

What a wonderful thing that you could reach out to these people and what a blessing that you were able to do it even though I'm sure you're worried about the custody issue! You are a role model for me.

KUDOS! It always feels better to give than to receive. Too many say they want to do something but don’t follow through, glad you did!

Thanks everyone.

A picture from the end of the event.

Tears literally rolled down my cheek as i read this! Now, as I type, it has turned to a sob. I love stories that put the whole meaning of why we are here on Earth into perspective!

Thank you to you and your "Other Half" for spreading love!

An unforgettable experience for everyone. So glad you gave them their smile back :-)

You both are wonderful people with big, beautiful hearts.