Spreading the reason for the season
As the weather starts to turn cooler and the short days give way for longer cozy nights, our household begins to look with great anticipation towards the season ahead.
With all the hustle and bustle of the holidays this time can pass by us too quickly if we don’t intentionally set time aside to remember what this season stands for. Taking the time to give back and invest in our community is something we like to do as an entire family.
Looking for ways to get your whole family involved in the holiday season? Here are two ideas for you.
1. Volunteer with an Minnesota organization
Loaves & fishes is a nonprofit organization in Hopkins, MN that serves nutritious, hot meals to people across Minnesota in various hospitality sites across the metro. They are a great family-friendly volunteering opportunity.
Another organization we love is Feed My Starving Children in Chanhassen, MN. FMSC sends packed meals all across the world to deliver hope and break the cycle of poverty. Grab a group of people and reserve your packing meal time soon! It’s a fun activity for the whole family.
2. Be intentional with your everyday interactions
Let’s not kid ourselves, the holidays can be an extremely stressful time. If you’re already feeling overwhelmed and like there’s just not time to squeeze in one more activity this holiday season—don’t. Instead, why not sit down with your family and talk about how you can intention with your interactions this time of year.
Here’s what we mean:
You know the barista who is rapidly fixing you that coffee you desperately need? Take a moment to look him in the eyes and say a heart-felt thank you.
How about the check-out person in Target? Instead of wishing that she would go faster, take the time to ask her about her family and where she plans to spend the holidays.
You get the idea. Then, before bed or around the dinner table, invite one member of your family can share a way they were intentional with their interactions. Modeling this kind of care and intention with our everyday interactions might be one of the most important things we can teach our kids anyway, don’t you think?
Happy Thanksgiving, merry Christmas, and happy holidays from our family to yours!
With gratitude,
Amy & Guy Grussing