This year we tried something new with Rick's family. Instead of drawing names to give gifts to cousins, we gave acts of service instead. Each family carried out their service project then wrote it up in a brief report and added a picture or few and made copies for the rest of the family. After our Christmas dinner all together, the kids took turns sharing what they did. We all put the reports into family binders to keep and remember. Part of me said, "No, service should be private and not flaunted." Another part wanted to share within our family circle the joy that service brings. It turned out to be a wonderful feeling as we shared and I think that a solid tradition has begun.Above is a picture of Shannon, Laura and friend Sarah delivering a love note Christmas tree to our friend, Maren and her mom just before Maren went in for major surgery. We had families of our church write them notes and then we used the notes as ornaments. I really felt the spirit guiding us to do this, and that made the memory all the more special.
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