Wonderful Life, Wonderful Cause

Today we went to a showing of "It's A Wonderful Life" on the big screen at Belcourt Theater in Nashville. This movie presentation is sponsored by the Wonderful Life Foundation, which was started 5 years ago here in Nashville by Robbie and Angie Cook when their 2 1/2 year old son was diagnosed with a brain tumor and began a 5-year (so far) journey of chemotherapy and survival.

When they realized the costs involved in this process, and met many other families going through the same challenges, they began the foundation to help earn money to help with medical expenses and provide Christmases and support for these struggling families. They host the movie at the theater, then throw a big party with fabulous food and music at their Nashville home, and invite attendees to contribute anything they can, small amounts or large. The entire event is provided by sponsors and personal donations, so that ALL the money donated at the event goes to the families.


Steve and I at the "after party" at the Cook's home with Becky
Pinney, Diane & Jesse Hubling, and Barbara (Becky's sister)


My friend, Becky Pinney, introduced us to this favorite movie opportunity in 2008, and we enjoyed it so much we went again this year. It feels great to celebrate the wonderful life we live by giving to others who have overwhelming challenges, and makes us even more grateful for the healthy children in our lives.

After we left the party, we went to dinner at Sportsman's Grill, and had a delicious dinner, visited, talked, laughed and just had a wonderful evening.

The fact that this just happens to be my favorite movie, shown at my favorite time of year, and it allows an opportunity to spend time with some of my favorite people --  is all an added bonus!

NOTE: Robbie & Angie Cook own "Knobstoppers," a hugely popular company that makes wine bottle stoppers, candles and decor out of old vintage doorknobs. They are really cool looking!

The after party at their home showcased their whole house decorated with this cool stuff. The chandeliers  and other lighting are made from old spoons, serving trays, old-fashioned key panels....SO COOL looking! They had their living room wall decorated with vintage silver trays of all shapes and sizes.

And they just started doing pastry paper/doilie things, and linens, and all kinds of kitchen-type magnets, magnetic boards. Just some really cool stuff. And some of the proceeds from their business also benefit the Wonderful Life Foundation, so besides the COOL-factor, it' a great reason to support their efforts.

Check out their websites:
http://www.knobstoppers.com/
http://www.cakevintage.com/