The week before Thanksgiving may seem a bit early to send out Christmas cards, but the seasons greetings mailed by Amy Renna's second grade class have a long way to go.

Their letters are now on their way to bring holiday cheer to soldiers stationed in Afghanistan.

Mom Jennifer Scully initiated the idea after she helped a Center School class with a similar letter writing campaign last year. That project was initiated by Gail Sholvin, who passed away earlier this year.

Scully wanted to carry on her friend's tradition, and after seeing a Facebook post from Operation Christmas Cards For Troops Overseas, she proposed the idea to Renna, her son Austin's teacher.

"I thought it would be special for the kids," she said.

Earlier this month, the students learned about Veterans Day, so Renna said the timing worked out perfectly.

"I was trying to think of something for the holiday season that in some way gives back," she said. "We always try to do something in the spirit of giving to the community."

Renna and Scully gave the kids a sample letter to get them started, but each student chose their own words and sentiments.

"Thank you for your help in keeping our country safe," wrote one student.

Another wrote, "We live in the best town ever." Still another talked about his seven pets.

Sophie Bozzo wanted to encourage the soldier who receives her letter.

"I wanted to tell him that he was brave, and I said 'Merry Christmas'," she said.

The students adorned their letters with American flags and holiday-themed stickers and a few days before Thanksgiving the class walked to the post office to mail their tidings. The letters are now on their way to a base in Bagram and will be distributed to soldiers who will have the school's address.

"There's a chance the soldiers will write back, which will be really neat," said Scully.