Bringing Thanksgiving to Christmas

"Maybe Christmas," he thought, "doesn't come from a store. Maybe Christmas...perhaps...means a little bit more!" ( the Grinch)

Okay, I know, its only November and we haven't even had Thanksgiving yet. But I wanted to put a bug in everyone's ear now. Many have already started their Christmas shopping or at least making lists... or mental lists. So, I received a World Vision catalog in the mail this week and it really made me stop and look at everyone's Christmas "Wish" lists. We all have stuff we would like, but really, none of here are in NEED. And if you asked, my list of Thanks is far greater than my Wish list. What if this Christmas, we look deep into our hearts, and do something with that money, that will HELP those really in NEED. Here are some great ways to help, and even get a little something for yourself. But, I have a feeling the cause will be far better for our hearts than another sweater would be.

• Through World Vision you have the opportunity to spend the same, if not less as you would normally on gifts, yet change someones life forever. You can buy a goat and feed and nourish a family and offer them some income. You could give to the Maximum Impact Fund, and still receive some beautiful gifts for your donation. Something as basic as water is something that you can give. ( I am not sure what happened with my links here, but as I added pics, I goofed it up! Hope they still get you where they should! If not, I will go back and fix them later!)

• If that isn't for you, fine... here are some other great ideas...

• Have coffee drinkers on your list? Buy them some coffee from Ethiopia and support an adoption! Here is the story of Jim and Adrienne who after 2, count that 2! disrupted US adoptions, are now adopting from South Korea. They need to raise money for that... she describes how you can help, simply by purchasing company from this awesome place!

• There is also, Aaron and Nicole Baarts personal organization, One Body, One Hope which is selling calendars, t-shirts and homemade goats milk soap, for a steal I might add!

• And one more way, I think is a great way to teach your children about helping others is purchasing gifts for organizations such as Angel Tree, Salvation Army, or whatever local charities you may have. If possible, check into delivering these gifts as a family. I know it has made a huge impact in my own children's lives. It helps them to appreciate what they do receive each year, and it reminds them to take time to pray for those who aren't as blessed as they are.

If you are still reading, thanks! I know I put a lot of stuff out there! But, its something close to my heart. And I believe that no matter how rough our year has been, someone else's has been worse. And what better way to improve everyone's year, than by being a blessing to someone else.

God is Good, All the Time!