Hustle and bustle...a time when we should be enjoying each other and celebrating the Christmas season, holiday stresses can be the worst. The poor economic situation can add to the burdens a time of "giving" can have. It can stress us out and ruin our holiday, or prompt us to create a better solution.
As a singe mom, I haven't always had the finances to give as my heart desired, so I came up with sentimental solutions. I started making personalized Christmas ornaments for family and friends, and in recent years added baked goodies to the mix. Last year was especially sweet.. :) ..baking, for the first time, my Grandma Peggy's lemon drop cookies...one of my favorites! It had been years since her passing, and having her delectable treats! It was bitter sweet...the cookies came out and were oh so yummy..I was getting to keep a family recipe going, and cherished memories of old..yet made me miss her too. Sending them to my mom and other loved ones was extra special for me. Another exciting addition last year was setting aside time with a dear friend and making centerpieces for our friends. We gathered greenery from our own yards, added candles, ribbons, and ornaments. It was quality time, fun, and a cost effective way to give to those we love. We also had a baking day and made homemade cookies and decorated them...great memories and ways to give.The highlight of my last two Christmas holidays, however, were volunteering time and donating items to people in grave need. There are too many who have nothing right here at our back door and appreciate anything we can give. The Giving Ministry is one. The founder, Stephanie Parden has done an amazing job heading this ministry, who's only profit is to the families in need. The 3rd annual event is next Saturday, December 12th, from 10am - 2pm, at John B. Foley Park, Highway 59, by the gazebo. Feel free to donate unused items, or volunteer, it is an amazing event, sure to make your holiday bright! It truly blessed me!If you know anyone who could benefit, please pass on the information, last year 300 families were served, the goal this year is 600. All proceeds go directly to those in need in our community. For more details, contact Mark and Stephanie Parden @ 251-979-4178 or TheGiving@ymail.com May your days be filled with the joys of Christmas!
As a singe mom, I haven't always had the finances to give as my heart desired, so I came up with sentimental solutions. I started making personalized Christmas ornaments for family and friends, and in recent years added baked goodies to the mix. Last year was especially sweet.. :) ..baking, for the first time, my Grandma Peggy's lemon drop cookies...one of my favorites! It had been years since her passing, and having her delectable treats! It was bitter sweet...the cookies came out and were oh so yummy..I was getting to keep a family recipe going, and cherished memories of old..yet made me miss her too. Sending them to my mom and other loved ones was extra special for me. Another exciting addition last year was setting aside time with a dear friend and making centerpieces for our friends. We gathered greenery from our own yards, added candles, ribbons, and ornaments. It was quality time, fun, and a cost effective way to give to those we love. We also had a baking day and made homemade cookies and decorated them...great memories and ways to give.The highlight of my last two Christmas holidays, however, were volunteering time and donating items to people in grave need. There are too many who have nothing right here at our back door and appreciate anything we can give. The Giving Ministry is one. The founder, Stephanie Parden has done an amazing job heading this ministry, who's only profit is to the families in need. The 3rd annual event is next Saturday, December 12th, from 10am - 2pm, at John B. Foley Park, Highway 59, by the gazebo. Feel free to donate unused items, or volunteer, it is an amazing event, sure to make your holiday bright! It truly blessed me!If you know anyone who could benefit, please pass on the information, last year 300 families were served, the goal this year is 600. All proceeds go directly to those in need in our community. For more details, contact Mark and Stephanie Parden @ 251-979-4178 or TheGiving@ymail.com May your days be filled with the joys of Christmas!
Abundant blessings to you now and always!
Janine Rillo
Thanks for encouraging us to remember that Christmas isn't just about buying the "biggest and best" gifts for everyone! It's about thoughtfully serving and loving others:) I love you and I'm so thankful for the blessing of having you in my life!! -Love, Brett
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