We have lots to be thankful for in our lives. We have two great kids, a good dog, a nice house and plenty to eat. We are thankful that I have a job and that God provided enough for us to get by when Joe was unemployed. Did you catch that? I said was. We are extra thankful this month that Joe found a job. I think a lot of people take for granted the things they have... us included. I didn't realize all the extra we were spending and the things we would buy just on a whim. It took Joe getting laid off to make us realize how much we had and that we could get by without all the extra stuff.
So for this Christmas we are doing things a little differently. We really want this Christmas to be about giving to those less fortunate than us. The people going through hard times... or they've always had hard time, but they are just taking it day by day by day... and it must be exhausting. Elijah has reached an age where he is very aware for things and remembers a lot. I want to instill this need to give to others early in life, so as he gets older he will want to do it on his own.
He helped me pick out some things for an Angel Tree child and we have some other things lined up to do. I won't say what but here is a list of some things to do if you want to spread some holiday cheer too:
Pick a random table at a restaurant and pay their bill
Pay for the person behind you (it can be anywhere, a store, a fast food place, coffee bar, cafeteria, toll booth, etc.)
Give food to homeless people, either through a shelter, food pantry or buying a hamburger for the homeless guy on the street
Sponsor a family
Get an Angel Tree child
Bake cookies for neighbors
Give money to organizations to help the needy (we like to put money in the Salvation Army kettles)
Volunteer at an organization. It doesn't cost any money and the rewards are amazing.
Buy a present for Toys for Tots (or any of the other program like it)
That is all I can think of and I'm sure there are a ton more. Leave a comment and let me know how you spread holiday cheer by giving to others.
