Winter Gift Swap

Last month I joined a winter gift exchange with A day in a Joyful Life and Insert Sarcastic Remark Here.

This was a great exchange and I knew I had to be part of it when one of the requirements were we had to do something charitable for some one else in addition to your partner's package. I was lucky enough to be given to Meg at Borrowed Heaven She had the fun task of shopping for me and I was given Rima  at Bolu by Rima. 

I got my package from Meg and was so excited. It was the perfect gift. Meg sent me a stocking full of goodies. I love that she included me in her family traditions. One of her favorite things on Christmas morning is opening stockings. Meg also made me a cinnamon ornament her family makes every year. 

Meg also included some candy, YUM. SHe included some sea shells from the Gulf Of Mexico, a sea shell ornament from Naples, FL a cozy scarf that matches my new coat perfect. Meg, how did you know??? She threw in a festive snow renuzit and some cookie cutters for baking. I loved the family card she sent me too! 

I almost cried when she mentioned sending a package of gifts in my name to the Hasbro Children's Hospital. Years ago a close friend of Meg's passed away after a long battle with cancer. Hoping that those children have a bright Christmas playing with those games. It means so much to me. My Aunt Susan spent many years in a children's hospital. She passed away this year so it means so much. Meg, I know Adam is up there looking down at you and knowing you're a wonderful friend to still think of him so many years later. 

Thank you Meg. You are such a beautiful soul!!! 

Jump over to Rima's blog if you'd like to see the goodies I sent her.

Originally I was going to donate to our local animal shelter in Rima's name. Since we completed the swap a week ago tragedy has fallen on Connecticut. Since then I was inspired by Ann Curry's 20 Acts or 26 Acts. She has urged us to commit one act of kindness for every child and teacher killed in Sandy Hook Elementary School. This week I started my 26 Acts. Won't you consider doing the same?
I don't always feel it is necessary to same your good deeds but I've decided to share my 26 in hopes of giving others ideas on how easy it is to do good for some one else.

Act 1- I donated a turkey to a family in need.
Act 2- Donated 3 toys to a local toy drive.
Act 3- Made dog biscuits and donated them to 2 local animal shelters.

Happy Friday and Happy Holidays. I'm so grateful to have EVERYTHING done for Christmas so this weekend for me is all about relaxing and spending time with friends and family!