Sub for Santa

Every year, at Christmas time, my office helps out needy families that live in the surrounding area and whose children go to the local elementary school.  This year the school gave us six families who were in need.  The families varied from a single mom with a small son to a very large family who had six children.  It breaks my heart every year because their situations are so sad and it really makes me realize how fortunate I am.  One family has a two year boy who has brain cancer and this will probably be his last Christmas.
The parents fill out some paperwork for us such as the names, ages, and gender of the children.  They also give us ideas that they would want or need and any clothing sizes.  Some just want groceries to make a holiday meal.  We make up paper ornaments with the information on it and post them in our lobby.  Employees can take as many as they would like, buy the items for the children, and then bring back to the office unwrapped. 
We have our kids save a portion of their allowance throughout the year so they can specifically use it for charity.  I picked out eight ornaments and let Caden and Carlin each pick four that they wanted to buy for.  Dustin and I took them shopping and we told them that they could pick out the item listed and that we would help them find a size if needed.  They really took the time to try to find something that they thought the kids would like and when we checked out at the register they did it all on their own paying with their money.  We are very proud of them and we always want them to realize how lucky they are to have the necessities and luxuries that some families can't afford.

Do you ever . . .

Do you ever just want to pull your hair out during the holidays?  During December we always have work, Christmas shopping, wrapping, baking, family and holiday parties, and the start of basketball.  Oh, and don't even get me started on the expense of it all!  I really try not to go overboard.  I also make the kids do something charitable whether it is Toys for Tots, a Secret Santa family etc.  They save some of their allowance during the year.  Then we all go together to pick up the items needed and deliver to said party.
This year I have been determined to enjoy the holiday season and try not to stress!  So far so good but it is only a week into the month . .   I am very excited because:

1.  My Xmas shopping is almost done!
2.  My presents are half wrapped all ready!
3.  We have some fun family functions planned!
4.  Everyone has stayed sane - so far!

** The only downside (or goodside? - I can't tell from him) is Caden and his girlfriend are no longer together.  He said they are better as friends.  I think that is a good choice for a 15 year old. :)

So if by some chance you don't hear from me after the New Year - feel free to check in.  I could be getting treated for exhaustion or maybe I will see you there . . .  Happy Holidays!!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving Family and Friends!  I am very, very thankful to have all of you in my life.  You are always there for support, love, laughter, a listening ear, and a shoulder to cry on.  I am grateful for everything I have when I know there are less fortunate people in the world.  I wish all of you a safe and happy Thanksgiving holiday!

Just have to brag for a minute!  Carlin received a 4.0 G.P.A for the first Qtr of school and Caden received a 3.5 G.P.A.  They both made honor roll! 
I know they get sick of Dustin and I constantly on the watch to make sure they do their homework, turn the assignments in and checking Skyward on their grades but it is worth it to see the report cards at the end of the Qtr.  AWESOME!