The Giving Season

It always seems like a challenge to keep the reason for the season in your heart during Christmas. It is an uBer busy time of year and it always seems to be a personal quest to make sure my kids know the true meaning of Christmas. I feel like service is the best way to feel the true meaning of Christmas. This year I submerged myself in a variety of service and it truly brought the season. It didn't seem busy or too crazy or intense. It felt joyful, peaceful and perfect. Submersion in service is always the answer.

Here is what we were involved in:

~ Piano recital and caroling at the Nursing Home (previously posted about.)
~ I asked every preschooler bring a new or gently used toy in to donate to our local "Help Them to Hope" organization. Between the 3 preschool classes and our family we had 2 large black garage bags full.
~ Each preschool class also sponsored a local kid in our community (it was anonymous. We just knew some basic info that they provided us and then picked out some Christmas gifts for each child.)
~ As a YW group we went over to the "Help Them to Hope" head quarters in Ontario. We learned about their operation (very impressive - I hope to get move involved in the future!) And then we helped bag candy for their Christmas food boxes.
~ The YW did the 12 days of Christmas for 3 different widows in our ward. Each class took one widow. Each day we brought a piece of the nativity along with a correndating scritpure or song. Our family went on Monday night (the 21st) and had family home evening with Sister Gardner. It was such a great experience, one that I hope we'll continue reguarly in the new year.
~ We also had Jeff and Julie for Christmas this year so we decided to do the 12 days of Christmas for them too. It was based off the song and so a little more silly but still lots of fun.
~ The kids also drew names to give gifts for each other. But the rule was that they had to made the present and wrapping paper. It was fun to brainstorm and create secretly with each of them. On Christmas they each were appreciative and enjoyed the homemade present they received. Definitely a tradition to keep.

As I learned long ago there is no better way to feel/show God's love than through service.