National Geographic

These actually came in just before the holidays...

 

We were lucky enough to be able to get a discount on a two-year subscription. I hope the previous month, the anniversary, and January coming in on the same day doesn't eat up three months (out of the 24 month) subscription. I was thinking about adding the children's National Geographic. They got one free from the mall Santa, but it much like the adult version has less content compared to the ads (was much better when I was a kid). However, I like the idea of stickers, but doubt the subscription will compare to the free version given.

 

The kids are a little advanced with their understanding of the world around them. Plus, we prefer to give them materials above their understanding when possible. I want to check into the Encyclopedia Britannica. When I was growing up I remember the books and the computer version, it opens up a portion of the world most kids will never see.

Christmas 2012

There is something enchanting about children, especially around the holidays. They have this innate belief in a figure that comes down the chimney, that elves can make toys, and that wishing on a star can come true. They've yet to become jaded by the reality of the world which is refreshing to adults.

 

 

This year the boys did the usual traditions. We visited Santa, where they gave their wish list. The yearly picture was taken before we all scampered back to the car.

 

Plenty of time and thought was put into choosing gifts for the children. Each child's strengths (educational toys), to things they adore (likes), and even taking into consideration how each one is advanced... when making a choice of what will go under the tree.

 

 

We had some diversity added to our home. The school introduced our kindergartener to "Christmas Around the World" (Germany, Italy, China, etc). Which meant we had to go beyond what we now perceive as a narrow scope... we told them about our traditions, Jewish, and Kwanzaa. I am grateful he learn a bit past what we've already told him about, which will give him a greater respect towards others as an adult.

 

This season, my youngest wanted a dreidel. I went as far as to track down a synagogue because normal shops don't sell them for some reason. He wanted one, and he adores the song. Even the pet shops have them in the dog sections, plushy dreidels that sing the song. But I can't buy him a "dog toy". Still need one... he wants a metal one.

 

This year we focused on "giving" to others. We took small things we were given, re-gifted them to those we know would love them (See's candy, nut array, and gift cards). This way the spirit of the season was continuously passed to the next person. We also found various ways to give back, donated to charities, and taught the kids the real "reason for the season". Unfortunately, this is the only time most think about those in need. And the only time lower wage earners make good tips. We took some of our tips and invested them back into others... ~*Karma*~

 

~*MERRY CHRISTMAS*~... and may everyone's New Year be blessed!!! We'll be doing black-eyed peas to hopefully reign in the good fortune for our family!



Christmas Cupcakes

SnowFlake Sugar Cookies

 

All was ready, the dough, frosting, and snowflake cookie cutters...

 

 

I followed the directions, even added flour to the counter, in hopes that all would turn out like the picture on the package.

 

 

I was horrified the cookies didn't turn out properly. They look more like flowers from the 1960s.

 

 

I went ahead and frosted the cookies. I tried my best to "keep in the spirit" of holiday cookies.

 

 

 

The best part is letting the kids decorate, sprinkles, and have entertainment.

This past week we first did a "Kids Shopping" with the boys school, they were each given $20, only spent about $10 each, and remainder was donated to the cause. Which I'd like to add was a good one. I know we'll get recycled gifts (I can tell 2 are VHS tapes and we don't own a VCR)... but the fact they did something nice for us is what is more important.
 

~*Double Score*~

 

Than, because the kids are more into doing charity this year their daddy told them about what Raley's is doing! If you donate $10, they match you, and $20 worth of groceries help feed families. http://www.foodforfamilies.org & http://www.facebook.com/raleysfoodforfamilies

 

Raley's also offers a bear you can buy for $9.99 (basically $10) and they'll than donate $5. We chose to stick to what would be about giving the most, and not about "getting something in return". I will add, this was a first for us... and I enjoy adding another thing that helps teach our children to think of others above themselves.

 

The downside to this specific experience is that it is less "hands on". Which means a lot more explaining on our part. We had to explain that what we give is doubled. Than that donation in turn will feed someone that is not as blessed as they are, without giving pity. Our biggest goal through it all is that our children will be less self absorbed, think and do for others, and be better members of their community (and society).

 

 

Be An Angel

 

Tonight we went to the store and the boys got to be an angel. We explained what daddy did, and how mommy asked it be an older child (who'll soon age out), and how they get to do something special. We first picked up a double pack of axe body wash, than a black hoodie sweater, and finally a watch. The hardest part was trying to figure out what kind of watch a young man would like (that we don't know and will never meet).

 

 We feel that next to educating our children, teaching them to volunteer, and to do acts of kindness towards others is best. We love how they have empathy towards others, learn to look past their own needs... and yes, our middle son is still growing out his hair to donate to "Locks of Love".

 

 

Angel Information

(916) 482-2370 ext 303

http://www.crhkids.org

 

Another thing we like to do is donate gently used clothes and toys directly to the "Children's Receiving Home" 3555 Auburn Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95821. I am hoping with my heart that more will do the same!  

.~*~._ .~*~._ .~*~._ .~*~._ .~*~._ .~*~._ .~*~.

9 ways to teach charity

How to teach Children about Charity

Teach your Child the Charity Habit

Ideas for Children Volunteering

Peanut butter Cookies

 

My middle child wants to be a chef when he grows up (and a firefighter), so every chance he gets, he cooks something! This time he wanted to make peanut butter cookies. We chose a pre-packaged this time in order to save on time. Next time we'll make it fresh...

 

 

He enjoyed added the few ingredients together, using the handheld mixer, and a feeling of accomplishment.

 

 

I explained to him, that much like when we make Snickerdoodle cookies, you roll it in a ball in your hand... but instead of rolling it in cinnamon sugar he smashes them down with the tines of a fork.

 

 

The first batch that went through was a learning experience. The bigger ones were just fine but the smaller ones burned a little on the bottom. It didn't take long for him to get them all just perfect.

 

 

 

I was grateful for the bonding time with my son... and extremely thankful that he is ambitious, intellectual, and creative/imaginative. But, I love his sense of adventure in always trying new things without fear.

Cute Christmas paper Chain

 

My youngest son made this at school, where each night you remove a ring, until Christmas Eve.

How many days 'til Christmas? There's a way you can be told: Take off a link each evening. Before the night gets cold, and Christmas Eve will be here By the time you reach GOLD!

 

 

I love it when the kids do cute little activities like this, and this was much better than we planned to do with the kids... daddy will still do activities with them using construction paper. And I'm hoping we can string popcorn this year!

Sugar Cookies

~*Mmm*~... there is nothing better than the smell of sugar cookies baking in the oven, to make it feel like home!!!

 

 

The boys rolled out the dough, used cookie cutters, and baked sugar cookies! Than they added frosting and sprinkles to their creations.

 

 

There is nothing more important than to cherish these moments, before they are all grown up, and to allow them a chance to have enjoyment while creating memories.

 

 

When I was growing up the holidays were a time when we all got together over a hot oven. We'd all make the same recipes, compete, and eat the rewards. I hope to over time create the same loving environment, free spirit, and memories for our children.

 

~*Traditions*~