The Season of Giving (and a Giveaway)
My brother Shepard died of cancer on November 29th, 2000. That year, several families did a 12 Days of Christmas for us.
I never found out who it was (although my parents may know), but I still clearly remember what a happy thing that was during a fairly difficult Christmas season.
I’ve always wanted giving to be part of our family Christmas celebrations, so when Kohl’s contacted me a few months ago and asked if we’d be interested in being matched with a family that needed some help for Christmas and picking out gifts for them at Kohl’s, Bart and I immediately said yes.
Two weeks ago, we received the information about the children, their sizes, a few things they wanted for Christmas, plus a gift card to Kohl’s to purchase the items, and yesterday the girls and I met Bart at our local Kohl’s during lunchtime, and we spent about an hour picking out items for three children in our area.
(Although these kids are young, they are substantially older than my girls, so it kind of broke my heart every time Ella picked out some toy she thought was the best and said, “Would those kids like THIS?” and I had to tell her that, no, it probably wasn’t quite the right toy for a nine-year-old boy).
I was really glad Bart came along, because he helped make sure we picked out a good combination of practical things like jackets and fun things, like a remote-controlled helicopter.
Also, I had saved a 20% off coupon that had come in the mail a few weeks ago, and when the total after the coupon came up as $149.55 (our budget was $150), Bart and I both possibly did a little cheer in the checkout lane.
Then we sat in the car and had a little picnic lunch with some sandwiches I’d packed, which was just a ridiculously nice forty-five minutes as a family.
This afternoon, we’ll drop off the bags of gifts at the local charity that we’re working through and we’ll cross our fingers the clothing fits and the toys are fun. And feel grateful for all we have – we are so very very fortunate.
This post wasn’t sponsored (although, I guess I do have a Kohl’s gift card with 45 cents on it. I’ll try not to spend it all in one place). Kohl’s provided the gift cards for us to buy the presents and the gift card for the giveaway. All words, pictures, and cute children are my own.Â
I know this sounds crazy, but I couldn't even tell for a long time that you had kids! You look so great! Thanks for the chance to enter. Happy Holidays!
That is such a sweet idea! Good work, you and Kohl's both 🙂
Such a great idea!
Several months ago you posted that Ani had started spitting out food. The day I read that post I thought, "I'm so glad that Lizzy (my daughter) hasn't figured that out yet." Then that afternoon, she DID spit out food for the first time. And I've been meaning to let you know that for several months (since you want to know these kinds of things), but for some reason, I haven't been able to comment on your blog, and after trying for a while, I gave up actually visiting your blog. I usually just read it on my blog feed. But your giveaway inspired me to try again. And here I am! The point is, I feel a connection with you, having a daughter that is just a few weeks younger than your daughter!
What a great way to put the focus on the spirit of giving!
I would get my daughter some hello kitty clothing
I just found your blog a few weeks ago and now it's part of my nightly web routine. This post brought a tear to my eye. What a generous act!
Such a great idea to include kids in buying gifts for others.
I'm sure you don't want anyone to bring it up, but the story of your 12 Days of Christmas brings tears to my eyes. I miss my mom so much, especially around the holidays, as I'm sure you're missing your brother.
There's nothing like giving to others in need (financially AND emotionally) to perpetuate a cycle of goodness.
Much love to you and your family…
*Drying tears.* I usually don't get so misty in the comments section. Apologies!
My mother passed away in Sept. 2000 with cancer as well. She had Leukemia and it was a really hard thing for our family. So I understand the gratitude you must of felt to those selfless friends who helped your family out in a time of need. Good for you for passing the love along and teaching your little ones to serve others at the same time.
What a wonderful family activity for the holidays! We love to do something similar with our kids every year (Operation Christmas Child, Salvation Army's Angel Tree, etc.). It creates such great memories and teaches them about what Christmas is all about!
I think it is awesome that you came together as a family to donate gifts – I am sure it is something your girls will cherish as they get older and serves as a wonderful lesson to them to give back. Knowing that Christmas is more than just the presents under your own tree is so important. 🙂
Love your blog, have been a follower for a long time as well as goodreads 😉
Love this! Thanks for the inspiration.
Thanks for keeping everything in perspective for us !
what a neat experience for the girls! I love doing this sort of thing when I can!
Love everything about this post! I especially love imagining little Ella trying to pick out toys for 8 year old boys 🙂
sOOOOO CUTE! love love x
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Natalie Off Duty
Adorable! I love shopping at Kohls, such a wide variety of items suitable for every family member!
I love Kohls! So many great gift ideas. 🙂