Even though we were officially “free” last night, I was still up early this morning, as I had several things to take care of today. So here we are, just about 9pm, and while the night is still “young”, I’m feeling rather draggy. Not good, as I have a lot of assignments to take care of before hitting the sack tonight. Not to mention that I’d like to wait up until Dan gets home, so we can hit the sack together. ;)
While I was out today, I stopped over at my favorite store to go gift shopping. Dan and I have already picked up a handful of things, including a gift for him, a gift for Alyssa, a gift for his brother, but today’s gift shopping was special, as I was choosing gifts for a total stranger. But I’m okay with that, as I want to participate in Operation Christmas Child. I chose the 5-9 age group, as I have a feeling that a lot of people shop for the toddlers and tweens/teens. I wound up asking a father and his two girls in one of the toy aisles their opinion, and finally made a decision on the “highlight” gift (the most expensive one, too 
) – a Littlest Pet Shop toy set.
You guys have until November 19th to buy gifts and fill a shoebox with them, and drop it and a $7 donation off to a local drop-off, so if you have $20-$30 to spare, why not choose a few Christmas gifts for children that may not otherwise receive anything this year?
Anyway, I’m off to work on some more laundry. As of 9am this morning we had hot water once again, but I was busy all day and didn’t start tackling the clothes until this evening. Three loads down, four to go!
That’s awesome that you’re doing something to help out another child, I am sure they will appreciate it! I know in the past when we’ve participated in Toys for Tots it always gaves me a nice warm feeling inside
Jenn! I love that you posted this. I had such a great time buying for Karina that I wondered if there was anything like this around my area, etc. I had never heard of this and when I looked at the drop off locations I found out why. One in my area, and I’m considering finding out about how to volunteer because NOBODY ever talks about this and there is no publicizing of it. It might be too late for this year, but watch out next year.
I have a lot of the same things in your photo for Karina, she’s 14, but the orphans are very immature for their ages. All great picks if I do say so myself!
I did Operation Christmas Child a few years ago, and it was so hard to only buy things that would fit into ONE shoebox! The past few years, we (first couple years, it was my mom & I, and the last year and this year, James and I) have been participating in “Christmas Dreams,” which is put on by the local DFACS. They place a Christmas tree in the mall with little flyers, each one telling about a child, their clothing sizes, and their Christmas wishlist. There’s no limit to what you can buy, and since we don’t have our own children to spend our money on, we love to buy for others! This year, we have selected a 6 year old boy named Colmon, then went straight to Wal-Mart, and loading our arms with clothes & toys!!
I am personally against Operation Christmas Child. Many people are not fully aware of the specific evangelical activities Samaritan’s Purse undertakes using these boxes. It is gift-giving with strings attached. Regardless of their faith, all children receiving shoeboxes must register, attend a rally, and receive Christian literature.
I would much rather support other charities, especially local ones. Basics for Babies, Salvation Army, Local Food Bank, Local Toy Drives, Children’s Hospitals, if you want something more international to help children in poorer countries make donations Unicef, and the Red Cross.
Wow, that’s really generous of you to participate. Unfortunately being a poor student all I can do is donate some old clothes to Red Cross and few euros now and then to them. But I’m sure that is appreciated too
And I first read that you had bought Pet Shop “Boys” set :D (that 90′s pop band or whatever it was, lol).
This made me think of xmas gifts already!
I did that operation christmas child for a few years until they stopped collecting them at my local church hall.
I’m suprised about what Aidan said, and its kinda bad because they’re saying ”you can have these toys, but only if you become christian” =/
But, it’s still a great scheme and makes you feel like your giving something at Christmas ;)
YAY for hot water! ^_^
Oh, Jenn, that’s an excellent idea, good for you! I have to go to Target anyway today, so I have no excuse not to pick something up. And there’s a drop off location 5 seconds from my office. You’ve inspired me to paticipate as well
Matt and I did that for our church. Its really neat. How are u liking ur new camera?
OMG…those hello kitty things are awesome!! (FIY…I love hello kity) lmao
I’m trying to get all my Christmas shopping this month. I hate going to the mall in December. It gets soooo packed!!
As the mother of a nine year old I can assure you that The Littlest Petshop gift will be a huge success.