Archive for the ‘kids do’ Category

Yesterday my friend Cherie’ invited my children to her home for an activity.  Cherie’ is one of the most thoughtful and generous people I know.  This year she had a great idea to get the kids into the true Holiday spirit.

The local food bank is really struggling this year because so many people are in need during these tough times.  Cherie’ spoke with a volunteer at our local food bank who mentioned they really need laundry detergent and diapers… along with their constant need for food.

We gathered at her house to help the kids put together Ziplock bags of laundry detergent and diapers, so that the Food Bank can distribute individual portions to families in need.

This was a perfect job for little hands.  Even Cherie’s one year old little guy loved helping.

Lily is packing up 10 diapers per bag.  The Food Bank specifically requested large diapers (size 5).

The kids filled quart size freezer bags with the laundry detergent.

This was a really fun activity, the kids they loved getting together… and they loved doing something nice for someone else.

This past weekend our family visited A Step Back in Time Nativity in Alpine, Utah.  Amid the hustle and bustle of the season, we always look forward to this tradition.  We had to bundle up and brave the bitter cold of the evening.  But, despite frigid temperatures, we were all touched by the loveliness of this unique live Nativity.

Let’s face it, it’s easy for Christmas to be all about Santa and gifts for the kids.  Going to this Nativity helps my children see that Christmas is more meaningful.  A Step Back in Time Nativity wonderfully recreates Bethlehem, with weavers, tanners, millers, a blacksmith and even a few Roman soldiers. There are also real camels, sheep, goats, geese and a donkey which the kids loved.  After making our way through “Bethlehem” we were led along a candlelit path to a barn where a small choir sang Christmas carols from above. As we entered the barn we saw Mary and Joseph and their baby in a real manger. I am always amazed at how when the kids enter the barn they fall quiet and are content to simply watch in awe the sweet family sitting quietly in the manger. The trip back in time to Bethlehem with its serene setting in a rustic barn creates such a wonderful peaceful feeling that stays with us and is a welcome contrast to our harried lives.

For those who live in Utah, tonight is the last night. The event is free. However, the family that created this Nativity collects donations, in honor of their mother, for the Huntsman Cancer Institute.