Dave and I started a new tradition last year. We call it the Giving Box. Through World Concern we buy from the global gift guide a goat (chickens etc.) that will go to a family in a third world country and you give it in the name of whoever you are giving a gift to. For example last year we bought 2 goats, 2 pigs and 20 chickens for our kids as gifts. We gave them a little toy farm animal and a card that tells them what animal we bought for a family in need somewhere in the world. This year we bought as a gift for our kids the opportunity for 4 children to go to school for 1 year. Books and pencils included:) So each year we will bring out the giving box at Christmas time and the kids can play with the toys inside that represent what we have given to people around the world. And each Christmas Eve we will add to the box. Sometimes I will let the kids decide what we give and sometimes it will be a surprise. I don't know if it means anything to them yet, but hopefully someday they will realize how blessed we are and how giving up a Christmas present by giving someone else a chance at a better life is important.
