Plans for next Christmas

[NYCDiane]

Okay, so last night I decided to wrap my DDs Christmas gifts and it turns out I got her A LOT more than I had planned on getting. I've been doing Christmas shopping here & there since probably mid-October so as not to be financially overwhelmed in November/December.

Anyway, looking at the amount of gifts I purchased her made me realize that we are fortunate. Of course, that got me thinking about those who are not as fortunate and who may not have a "Christmas".

I decided (and spoke with DD about it) that next year, we are going to "adopt a family" and spend 1/2 the money we would have spent on her on gifts for the family we "adopt" (I'm hoping we can "adopt" a single mom w/a daughter). At first she balked, then realized how much she really has and she likes the idea of being able to shop for and help someone else.

We've done this in the past ---- helping a friend who would always adopt a family and do the shopping/wrapping with her -- and it was always a great experience. I think it's about time we do this ourselves. My DD will be 12 next Christmas and it's time to start doing for others rather than let the holiday be a "me, me, me" thing.

 

[englishteacha]

That's a nice idea. I work with a church youth group and we spent Friday afternoon volunteering at "the North Pole", an agency that helps families in need to have a good Christmas. The wishes of some of these children...a sled, a dolly, books, craft items...most don't want extravagant things. Sure, there were some requests for PS3s and TVs, but most were for toys to play with, warm clothes, good books, etc.

 

[a1tinkfans]

A great idea and a real way to instill a sense of GIVING, being at a HOLIDAY Season, makes it feel even more special for youngsters and a bit easier .

I dropped off Bags of food yesterday...that felt very good too and looking at the weather outside, all that soup and peanut butter and pasta should come in handy for some families in need

Happy Holidays One and All!

Giving makes you feel

 

[Leader of the Club]

Why wait til next Christmas?

If you already have way more than you intended for your daughter there is still plenty of time to donate half of those gifts to children that won't have a Christmas.