I have 4 siblings. I have 11 nieces and nephews. If everyone bought for everyone, it would get pricey. So what our family does is have the kids swap names for gifts. But last night one of my sisters called me with a different idea.
She suggested we anonymously sponsor a poor family or two and let all 14 of our kids buy for those kids instead of each other. I thought it was a great idea; my kids don’t “need” a thing. They’re plenty spoiled, and I know my nieces and nephews have what they need as well, and more.
So I’m really excited about this new project. One sil knows people who may need it; she said one family at church in particular couldn’t afford a full Thanksgiving dinner (they were planning on eating regular dinner–it gotten taken care of though). My 2 younger kids won’t know what the deal is, but my oldest will remember.
I’ll keep updating this as it continues.
Who knows, maybe we’ll start it as tradition.
I think this is such a great idea. The kids can get really involved with helping others and can relate to it since they are picking out the gifts.
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That’s an excellent idea! I really like it! It’s a great lesson for the kids too. It’s about giving, not getting, and too many people think about the season the wrong way.
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Yeah, wish I could take credit 😀
I agree, Wayne. And we can’t teach our kids to appreciate what they have if we don’t also teach them to give.
hello Signe =)
that is a wonderful idea. It will teach the kids the value of helping others. When my son turns one I’m thinking of celebrating it in an orphanage or something. I am sure what you’re gonna do will be very fruitful =)
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I think that’s a great idea! That old saying “it’s better to give than receive” is so true and the feeling you get when it’s done for those in need is even more rewarding. I’ll be spending my Christmas in the Dominican Republic and visiting the families of the 2 boys I sponsor there and just knowing that I’ll bring a little happiness means more to me than anything.
Your kids will definitely benefit from this act of generosity. Way to go!
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Thanks for sharing such an awesome idea- I have wanted to do something alone those lines for the last few years, but when I bring it up to my friends they don’t seem all that happy about it. Maybe family members are a better choice!
Erikas last blog post..The Importance of Gratitude