Lawson's "Happy Faces"

MEMPHIS, TN -

(WMC-TV) - The young man getting today's Extra Credit is working to put a smile on the faces of hospital patients, nursing home residents or just people in need of a little "pick-me-up."

The headquarters for "Lawson's Happy Faces" is located in what looks to be an ordinary Oakland, Tennessee Flower shop.

The idea for the project came about during a hospital flower delivery by Twigs-n-Things owner, Jennifer Tilghman and her then-9 year old home-schooled son, Lawson.

"Actually, he noticed that there was a lady in a room...and it was a dark room and kinda cold looking, and she did not have any flowers. And, I think, he thought that everyone in the hospital got flowers," explained Lawson's mom.

"But, she looked really sad. So, I told my mom we need to - .every week, a couple times of the week - we need to take arrangements to the hospital with people's baskets," added Lawson.

And the idea grew to include not only hospital patients, but also nursing home residents and a nomination process for just about anyone!

"We also kinda added to that to have our community nominate someone that they feel would be a good recipient. Maybe a neighbor, a single mother that's struggling...just anyone! Anything that we can do just to kinda brighten someone's day," said Mom.

It was not cost-effective business move because flowers are not cheap. Which is why, in addition to giving nominations, Lawson and his mom are also asking people to donate old vases, baskets, containers for use in the "Happy Faces" arrangements.

"We really are striving to be the hands and feet of Our Lord...and I think Lawson's learning that," added Tilghman.

"Lawson's Happy Faces" is about making people feel good and happy...and in that: the mission is being accomplished.

"I'm getting smiles and...a lot of people gettin' involved with Jesus and the hospital...It makes me feel happy," added Lawson.

By the way, Lawson has dyslexia and got so far behind his classmates in public school that his parents decided to home-school.

If you'd like to nominate someone for "Lawson's Happy Faces," donate vases, or just get more information about the project you can check Twigs-n-Things Facebook page, send an email to www.twigs-n-things.com, or call the flower shop at (901) 466-1234