A Holiday Season Wrapped With Love, Gratitude & Giving
- Scarlett Bowman
- 34 minutes ago
- 3 min read
A Note From Scarlett
It’s hard to believe how quickly this year has flown by. The days and weeks blur together, and suddenly you look at the calendar and think, “holy shit, it’s almost Thanksgiving!” Yet here we are — already surrounded by ribbons, wrapping paper, and the familiar swirl of the holiday rush.
This season always brings me back to the traditions and values that shaped me, and I wanted to share a little holiday catch-up with all of you.
A Tradition Wrapped in Love
For more than 26 years, I’ve “adopted” around 15 children each Christmas. Growing up in a very poor coal-mining area of West Virginia taught me a lot — including the importance of never forgetting where you come from and always giving back when you can.
Over the years, many of you have stepped in to help me fulfill these wishlists. And WOW… you have poured so much love into these kids’ lives. Last year, every single item across all wishlists was purchased.
Because of your kindness, I was also able to use my own funds to stock families with groceries, refill the pastor’s food pantry, and step in for last-minute emergencies.
This year’s list includes children who have been abused, kids suddenly placed in foster care, babies born to addicted mothers, and families shattered by tragedy. Without this effort — without YOU — these kids would not have a Christmas morning. Their caretakers would struggle just to put a holiday meal on the table.
From the bottom of my heart: Thank you. Truly, deeply, endlessly.Your generosity wraps these families in warmth they desperately need.
Amazon Black Friday Is Here — Perfect for Wishlists
Amazon launched Black Friday early on November 20th, which is perfect timing for anyone wanting to shop from the kids’ Christmas wishlists.
These wishlists include sizes, preferences, and needs directly from parents and guardians. If something becomes unavailable, feel free to choose a comparable item — or purchase something similar locally and let me know, so I can remove it from the registry.
Important Date: December 15th
Please make sure items will arrive on or before December 15th. Anything arriving after that date won’t make it in time for us to wrap and load before the trip to West Virginia.
Food Pantry & Warm Clothing Donations
I’ll also be taking food donations for the local church pantry in WV. If you’d like to contribute:
Drop food off right at the kennel — box in the office.
Office door will be unlocked at all times for convenient drop-off.
Boots and winter coats (any size!) are very much needed.
Toys purchased locally can be left in the same drop-off box.
Every item is another layer of warmth wrapped around a family this winter.
If you prefer to donate money instead of shopping, you can Venmo funds and I will shop for the kids to ensure equal, thoughtful gifts for everyone.
Venmo: @Scarlett-Bowman-1
Notes: WEST VIRGINIA CHRISTMAS
Code (if prompted): 5035
A Personal Update — With Gratitude
Many of you noticed I wasn’t at the kennel as much this summer. What some didn’t know is that I had both of my hips replaced at the same time.
Yep — both.
I was born with hip dysplasia, and years of farm work plus kennel life accelerated the deterioration. After interviewing six surgeons, I chose one of the best in the region. Recovery was tough, but it was absolutely the right decision.
I was back at the kennel by August, still increasing flexibility, but feeling so much better.
And yes… I did buy a fuzzy cow during recovery.And yes… she’s adorable.I’ll share those photos in next month’s newsletter!
Wrapping Up With Gratitude
Thank you for being such generous, supportive, big-hearted people.Your kindness doesn’t just give these kids gifts — it gives them hope.Hope they will remember for the rest of their lives.
Wishing you a Thanksgiving overflowing with warmth, gratitude, and maybe a little extra wrapping paper.
If you have any questions, please reach out anytime.
From my family to yours…
Happy Thanksgiving!
— Scarlett Bowman