The Golden K Club had its annual Christmas party for children with special needs, with many in attendance. Santa (Fred Jump) shares a laugh with Golden K member Sue Proudfit.

KINGSFORD — Daily schedules are usually busy for everyone. Put Christmas in the mix and it makes one wonder how everything will get done. Monday morning found the Golden Kers gathering very early at the First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford, rolling up their sleeves to set up for the Christmas party for the special needs children.

A group headed for the kitchen, some put up tables, chairs and decorations. Another few put together the treat bags and a couple got together stacking blankets on one wall and pillows on another, which were made and donated through the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Department community corrections program. Each child receives one as they leave — hugging them close to their faces, it is clear that warm, fuzzy feeling just made a perfect ending to their day.

Excitement builds as one bus load after another come rolling in. As everyone finds their spot to sit, the aroma filters in from the kitchen. Hot dogs, chips, cool drinks and cookies are being prepared. Crayons on the tables help the students keep occupied until all have arrived.

Mindy Pilon brought along her “band,” which includes her father, Ray Pilon, and friend Eldon Paquin. The band started the music as the young people enjoyed singing and dancing to a large variety of Christmas songs. As Ray Pilon always does, he ends his repertoire singing “Amazing Grace.”

The children then were surprised by the arrival of Santa. He joined in with the singing and dancing, making a special visit to each table and talking with the children. Santa, you put a sparkle in their eyes that will carry them through to Christmas. Thanks Santa for taking the time out of your busy schedule to help make this day “special” for some very deserving young people.

A special thanks also to the staff and aides and, of course, the bus drivers who get everyone back and forth safely. Thanks to Willis, Woodland ISD, Norway, Crystal Falls, Niagara, Kingsford Middle School, Florence and Woodland Schools.

After the children leave and the clean-up is completed, the seniors head for home and some welcomed rest. Easing into the recliner, leaning back, any tiredness turns into a feeling of thankfulness. Thanks to all the Golden K members working together to make this day “special for all.” Thanks to Kirk Olson for emceeing and getting a hearty “ho-ho-ho” from each group as they arrive.

Santa wasn’t the only surprise for the day. Sarah Sleeter presented all Golden K ladies with a carnation and chocolates for the gents. Thanking them for going that extra mile for others. Wishing everyone a “Merry Christmas,” she was gone in a “flash.”

With the holidays comes changes in schedules. All Golden Kers take note that no meetings will take place Dec. 24 and Dec. 31. The next general meeting for the Golden K will be Jan. 7.

The Golden Throats will sing Wednesday at Evergreen and Jan. 2 at Victorian Pines.

So all Golden Kers, this is the time to soak those sore feet, sit back in that recliner, take a deep breath and reflect on back on a year of service, programs and wonderful occasions with the special needs children. Seeing them go off with smiles as big as all outdoors makes it all worthwhile.