A Time for Giving

We are officially deep into the holidays and are therefore determined to get our holiday shopping done. Malls are packed and lines are long. Some years I have vowed to avoid the mall(s) at all costs and just shop at smaller family-owned stores, some years I have done it all online. This year, my shopping has been a nice mix of both - getting me out in the stores to "enjoy" the holiday spirit (horrible traffic included), while also taking advantage of shopping in my pjs!

As for the giving, it's the part of the season I enjoy most - spending time with my family and sharing gifts that I hand-picked just for them. I am grateful that I'm able to give to them as I always do - but this year was different. I was able to share with strangers this year - people who don't have the means to have what I have always considered a "normal" Christmas. I will never see these people open their gifts and enjoy them, but I will know that I, along with millions of people across the country, have made a difference in someone's life, and that is more satisfying than anything. If you haven't already - consider spending a few extra dollars this weekend to bring a smile to someone's face who might not have found a reason to smile in a long time.