Thursday, December 15, 2011

Giving Back

A few weeks ago my husband and I decided we wanted to do something extra special this holiday season. We wanted to help people in a way that we haven't been able to in the past. So we decided to take part of our Christmas budget and use that money to donate toys to the Toys for Tots Foundation

As we went out shopping, we actually felt a bit nervous buying for others. We wanted to make sure we chose toys that children would like and ones that didn't require too many batteries. So on the limited budget we had, we were able to buy 14+ toys.

Photobucket

Ethan was really exited about buying toys for other kids. However, when we went to drop them off, he didn't quite understand. He's still a little young, but we are hoping to continue this every year and making it our new family tradition (Of course we want to try and give at other times of the year too).
Photobucket
Dropping the toys off at the drop off location
We picked Toys for Tots to donate, partly, because it is a Marine Corps foundation. My husband served 4 years in the Marines, so military foundations hold a special place in our hearts. We also picked toys for tots because as a child, my parents weren't always financially capable to provide Christmas gifts for us. I remember receiving many generous gifts from charities, which helped make our Christmas special. As an adult, I would like to provide the same for other families. 

The blogging community has inspired me in so many ways, in particular it has inspired me to get more involved in helping others. On a daily basis I see the act of kindness that come from other bloggers. I see so many people working to give back and helping those in need. Even though I wish we could have done even more, I know that every little bit helps. If we are able to brighten just one child's Christmas morning, then it's all worth it.
Please note, that I am sharing this to help inspire others to give back, the same way I have been inspired. Every little bit helps a person in need.

8 comments:

Erin said...

Such an amazing thing to do! :) Your heart is just lovely!

Mary said...

Aww that is super SWEET wish I was able to give back!! Im sure that the gifts will be much appreciated!! there will be happy kids christmas moring!!

http://justthe3ofus-mary.blogspot.com/

Amy said...

What a great lesson to teach your son. You are awesome!

Sara @ Seeing Purple Stars said...

wow, what an awesome thing to do!

kira said...

Great thing to do with your kids!

Lorie said...

That is such a nice thing to do with your little guy!! Thanks for stopping by Reading Confetti! I'm happily following you back! :)

Megan said...

That is SO SO sweet! I totally agree...blogging makes me feel inspired to be a better person!!

Kate said...

This is fantastic. My parents used to take part in a program called the Giving Tree at Christmas time, where we'd pick an ornament off the giant Christmas tree in the mall. Each ornament had a family on it that needed help at the holidays. So my parents would buy gifts for that family. Christmas reminds us to help others, and you are right -- we should do so all year long. I've also noticed the blogging community is wonderful about that. Thanks for sharing! Merry Christmas!

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...