[radio_flyer]

My sister was telling me that she does not buy Christmas gifts for her kids or grandkids. Her kids are all grown now and her youngest grandchild is in the first grade. She said she got tired of spending money on gifts that didn't fit or things the grandkids didn't like..

So what she does is makes donations to three charities in her grandkids name. One of the charities she donates to is "Homes for Our Troops". And what they do is build homes for wounded vets. She was so excited because they just completed one home near where she lives and a wounded vet is moving in his house in December.

She also has a Christmas block party and asks everyone to bring food for donations for a local food bank. And then she gathers up her grandkids to help her deliver the food to the local food bank.

I forget what the third one is. shrugs shoulders.... But I think this is such a great idea. Not only does it save her from the stress of Christmas shopping, it is planting a seed for her grandkids. And the grandkids don't mind not getting gifts and my sister said they enjoyed helping delivering the food to the food bank. In fact, her one grandson wants to do a "food drive " at his school.

I just think this is a "true" spirit of giving. It is ok to still buy gifts for family or friends. But I think this is such a beautiful way of giving. Just thought I'd share..

[lynn P.]

This is a wonderful idea radio flyer and kudos to your sister/her grandkids. So true when we help others, it fulfills us better than any gift. Its also a great idea if someone's feeling lonely, they can go out and help the needy.

[radio_flyer]

Lynn, I will have to say, you reach out and give freely on PC. Am so glad you are here..

that is really nice of her.

nice idea

[Beholden]

The words you wrote are beautiful!

What a great feeling to see the home for the wounded Vet built close to you.

What a terrific way to destress too.

Just last night I asked my hubby about inviting 1 Airman from the local Air Force Base to our home for Christmas next year. When he was single and miles away from home, that would have meant so much to him to have a sense of family, a home cooked meal, maybe even a gift card somewhere.

Pay it forward.