Mistletoe

It's the most beautiful time of year
Lights fill the street spreading so much cheer

What's up with mistletoe and chestnuts? I think I've only had chestnuts in Asia.

I'm definitely going through a rollercoaster of a season but I can't deny it's the most wonderful time of year. One of my love languages is gifts so I spend a lot of time thinking of the perfect thing to give people. If I don't figure out something I think they would use and hopefully appreciate I'd rather not give anything and just keep thinking about it. I'd rather save resources for something special or give a stranger something they need rather than a friend something they didn't really want. Am I the only one?

Earlier this week I went through my dresser and closet (not eve storage under my bed) to find things to donate or sell. I cling to things too much. Thank goodness I looked! I've been eyeing some yellow gloves at target but I found 4.5 sets of gloves in my drawer. It's so good to look at what I have before my eye starts wandering to shiny, new things.

If we have two coats and we see someone in need we should share one of ours. What if I don't know anyone in need? Do I donate blindly and pat myself on the back for a good deed or do I try to seek out and meet people in need?

Bringing color to Kenya

[2? weeks ago]
Last week I was terribly motivated to see how far I could stretch $10-20 amidst back-to-school-sales for Operation Christmas Child (OCC). 

OCC is an event put on every Christmas by Samaritan's Purse. You fill up shoeboxes with little fun gifts for children who probably aren't getting much for Christmas, not because they've been bad, but because their families are unable to afford those types of things. The shoeboxes are shipped all over the world. They're on facebook!

Anyways, 

when I mentioned my plans to BabyJ during book club, her reaction was "You're going to store all that stuff until Christmas?" I don't mind stuffing things into my already bursting closet, but her reaction did get me thinking. Maybe someone else could use those supplies NOW. 

I turned around and there stood Steven talking to someone else about his upcoming missions trip to  Kenya. They are leaving next week. I have not known him that long, but one thing I DO know is that he has a BIG heart for kids. The purpose of the Kenya trip will be to visit one particular slum and lead VBS for the kids. What a perfect opportunity.

FYI, this is how far $15 will get you 

if you shop right now:

10 - 11pk markers
10 - 24pk crayons
4 - Sterilite Bins
Jbear found some pretty cheap scissors too!

Pretty amazing how far certain timing can take you.

Note: Please pray for Kenya and the team.