Article: How Can I Give?
As we plunge into the holiday season I am
suddenly caught up and swept into the
“feeling” I have been seeking.
You know where you walk around smiling
for no reason and can’t wait to surprise that
special someone with your thoughtful gift.
The last few years I have found myself less
and less attracted to the glittery tinsel facade
that is so prevalent in pop-culture. I was
even tempted to do all real candles on our
fresh cut tree. (though hubby looked at me odd)
I look at some evergreen boughs tied up with a
red ribbon hanging on my door and feel a
deep satisfaction of nature and love in a
simple form.
I want to spread this feeling by touching
others lives.
We have found a way to donate at least
one toy each year to a worthy cause.
You see these everywhere, toys for tots,
or just some change in the salvation army
bucket. Now my girls are asking me for
change to drop in!
I always have them pick out the toy and
place it in the bin to foster the feelings of
giving inside them which naturally occur.
There are important little ways that you can
“give” to others without spending a dime.
*A Smile- a tender word or just a smile of
understanding can be exactly what someone
needs to lift them up.
*A Hand- offer to babysit for a single mom,
run errands for an elderly person, rake leaves
or shovel snow as an act of kindness.
*A Model- I know this is an overused phrase, but
“Be the change you want to see” fits so nicely here.
A glimmer of hope and love and all that is good is
always needed in this world.
*A Friend- Being there for those you love and even
not so close acquaintances is a cherished trait and brings
community together. It is nice to have like-minded mamas
to talk and share with!
I want to take take this opportunity to thank all of you
wonderful families around the world who make
The Waldorf Connection possible.
I am giving back to you with a Giveaway!
Enter a comment below on 1 way you
hope to “give” this Holiday Season and
you will be entered to win
Reg Down’s (author of Tiptoes Lightly)
Christmas Book
“The Cricket and The Shepherd Boy”
A Lovely Christmas Tale with amazing
illustrations!
Drawing will be Dec. 19 morning and I
will ship the book that day.
All My Love & Gratitude!
Donna








We have already passed on many toys in anticpation of Christmas (and as a result of reading Simplicity Parenting — my goal this year was to simplify), and it was so encouraging to hear you talk about that very thing during your Holiday Party online. It inspired me to go through even more toys and pass them on.
I’ve been trying to give by doing little things here and there this year. We are donating to Toys for Tots as usual and my daughter helped pick out the gift. I’m making a donation of diapers to a newly opened shelter for women and children in the hopes of making a difference in their lives this holiday season. And most importantly of all, I’m trying to carry the true holiday spirit with me this year and not get caught up in the stress that so many people experience. We’ve scaled back on presents and have done a family oriented advent activity each day to try and truly enjoy this time of year rather than focus on the commercialism of Christmas.
During this last week before Christmas, I hope to give time. Time to my son; time to actually play with him for extended periods, letting him take the lead with me following and contributing. Time to my husband; really listening to what he has to say, being truly present and focused with him. Time to my inner being; to get re-centered. Time to worship, time to play, time to help, time to pray, time spent appreciating and living in each moment.