Merry Christmas
Luke 2:11 (NKJ)
For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
The Bell Ringer
Recently my daughter and I spent a day running errands. We scurried from one place to another scratching off our ‘to do’ lists. As we exited a large shopping center, I noticed the seasonal bell ringer, bundled in cold weather attire, faithfully ringing his bell for donations.
I stopped and turned back dropping coins into the big red kettle.
“Thank you,” he said.
“Has anyone purchased a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for you?” I asked.
“No,” he answered, shivering.
“Which drink would you like?”
“Hot chocolate,” he responded with a smile.
I hurried to catch up with my daughter who was already seated in the SUV.
“I knew you were going to do that,” she said.
“Where can we get hot chocolate?” I asked, backing out of the parking space.
“Over there.” She pointed across the large parking lot to a fast food restaurant.
I drove in that direction and scanned the drive-through menu for sizes and pricing.
“Order the large one,” she said.
I smiled.
We returned to the shopping center, and I pulled alongside the bell ringer. My daughter rolled down the window and handed him the warm drink.
They both smiled.
You never know how a small act of kindness might bless someone. The bell ringers withstand cold weather and long hours unselfishly volunteering for the needs of others. A hot drink might just hit the spot.
Philippians 2:4 (NKJ)
Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.
A Pocket Full of Change
As we enter the CHRISTmas season, gift giving is at the top of most everyone’s list. We spend hours selecting items for our loved ones, sometimes running from one bargain to the next. But do we consider those less fortunate? Maybe your neighbor lost his job or the parents of your children’s friends have recently separated.
I came up with an idea a few years back. I toss my loose change into an old can or empty jar. At CHRISTmastime, I give the jar to a family in need. I also include the coin wrappers. I imagine how much fun the children have counting and wrapping the change. Those quarters, dimes, nickels and pennies add up. Sometimes I hide a few loose bills inside. And when all is said and counted, the children can select a gift of choice. To sweeten the jar, I include wrapped bags of candy.
One year, I discovered that a certain aged penny was valuable. So I added that information in the jar of coins. What fun for children to search for a coin of value!
Here’s where I find most of my change:
automobile cup holder
floor mats
sidewalks
bottom of my purse
jean pockets
under sofa cushions
washing machine
You may have your own coin area.
This is a great mission for children as they learn about sharing and giving.
Merry Christmas!
Proverbs 22:9 (NKJ)
He who has a generous eye will be blessed, for he gives of his bread to the poor.
The Gourmet Apple Cart
Guest post by my friend, Terri Ginther, The Gourmet Apple Cart.
Harvest to Holidays
Treat yourself and your family to a new family holiday tradition. Many of my customers will tell me when they buy one, two, or more apples that they set time around the table to taste-test each of the flavors. They talk, laugh, and enjoy their time together. The ‘apple’ is just the vehicle that gets them there. Sharing time with your family this holiday season is what memories are made of, and the gourmet apples can certainly help.
Please join us at the Flint Farmers Market to get your Gourmet Caramel Apples for all your little extra givings.
Happy Thanksgiving
and all the best for the holidays!
Terri and Gary along with the Gourmet Apple Cart
The Gourmet Apple Cart
Flint Farmers Market
Apple Hours: Tuesday – Thursday 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
thegourmetapplecart@gmail.com – 989-777-3934
(The gourmet apples are delicious! Patsy)
