A pile of mismatched socks on a laundry room floor was the only inspiration Karen Kiefer of the Church in the 21st Century Center needed to discover a special way her family could spread some Christmas cheer to others. The misfit socks, filled with wishes, recipes, treats and sweets, were decorated and delivered by the Kiefer children to neighbors and friends in need of a sign of gratitude and joy during the Christmas season.

The tradition has given rise to The Misfit Sock, a beautifully illustrated storybook written by Kiefer and sold with a one-of-a-kind magical misfit sock.

“My hope this that this project will help children …discover the true spirit of Christmas… [and] remind them that they are loved and they own their power, magic, happiness and inspiration,” said Kiefer.