“The best of all gifts around any Christmas tree: the presence of a happy family all wrapped up in each other.” – Burton Hillis
“Christmas is doing a little something extra for someone.” – Charles Schulz
“Christmas is love in action. Every time we love, every time we give, it’s Christmas.” – Dale Evans
“Christmas is not a time or a season but a state of mind. To cherish peace and good will, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas.” – Calvin Coolidge
I chose the above quotes for this post because of the experience my family and I had today. Every year at Christmas I try to coordinate a giving project for us to do as a family. Something that will impact the thoughts and hearts of our children and to remind them of how blessed we are to have each other and the life we have together. This year, our project involved little extra time and effort and produced big smiles and much gratitude. We took a Christmas tradition from our home and shared it with those who do not have a home or family with which to share traditions.
Every year we as a family work together to make dozens upon dozens of Christmas cookies and candies. It is a tradition. Every hand is involved and we spread Christmas cheer to our neighbors and friends by giving them each a tray of the goodies that we only make once a year. This year we took this a step farther. We made a huge tray of cookies and delivered them to a homeless shelter for youth. We paired the cookie tray with a bundle of gift cards, one for each child presently staying in the shelter. We delivered the cookies and cards this afternoon and I have to say I have been an emotional wreck since. Yes, my heart is filled with joy from the act of giving, but my heart is also breaking for these young kids who have no one to hug them, to love them, or to shower them with the gift of family togetherness or traditions this Christmas, or maybe even any Christmas.
I tell you this not to obtain praise for doing something nice, but to share the Christmas spirit and to share the idea so that others may do something as simple as sharing a homemade gift with someone who otherwise would not be so blessed. To me, this is Christmas love in action. Sharing the joy found in the true meaning of Christmas.
Christmas Joy to Be Shared
Sharing Family Traditions to Give Joy to Others
Robyn Graham Photography 
beautiful gesture for your family tradition Robyn ~ the greatest joy is in the spirit giving with love — I so agree ~ makes all the difference! xxoo Blessings ~ RL
Christmas blessings to you Robyn, and happy new year as well! Robyn
So it seemed here the spot I lost you – afer this Christmas post — wonder why 😦 I apologize sweet friend – always would keep you on my follow list. Wonder how many others I might be missing? ~ Well – you are back and will keep in touch from the mid-west where I am heading — cold there too I hear… much love always, Robyn
Dearest Robyn, So glad you are back! I wonder why the subscription was dropped. This has happened to my mother before too. Frustrating. I always love and appreciate your comments so I am thrilled to know you will be following my posts again! I am hoping and praying for much success for you during your visit to the Midwest. I am curious as to which state you will be as I grew up in the Midwest. XOXO Blessings dear friend, Robyn
the windy city 😉 xo
Love Chicago!!! Stay warm and keep your spirits up. Hugs and love! Robyn
and i lived in St. Louis, MO for several years after getting married too!
No way! I grew up an hour outside of St. Louis but lived there throughout college and for our first three years of marriage…where in St. Louis did you live and what years were you there? I bet we over lapped…amazing how small this world is. XO Robyn
Christmas blessings to you & your family, Robyn
Thank you Karen and to you and your family as well. Robyn