Operation Christmas Child

Operation Christmas Child is an awesome organization through Samaritan's Purse, which provides children in more than 100 countries, on six different continents, shoe boxes filled with gifts. Keep in mind, these shoe boxes may be the first gift these children ever receive. We have done angel tree gifts before, but this is our first time participating in OCC. I hope to do even more next year!

In trying to instill in my boys that giving is better that receiving, and to be thankful, I thought it would be a fun project for us. Caden was so sweet. I told him about it and showed him the Veggie Tale video about it, then he started off to his room to get some things. I stopped him and explained to him that the items need to be brand new. He then remembered a movie he just received for his birthday and wanted to send that. I told him that most of the children don't have TV's to watch movies. He then pipes up. "We could give them our TV." I love that he is thinking big in his giving! I did stump him when I told him the TV wouldn't fit in the shoe box. Loved it!

I was so inspired by one blogger, Clair who using her thriftiness and was able to send 45 boxes this year for $45.00. That is amazing and inspirational. Here is a link to the video. She has awesome tips! Thanks Karen for the heads up!!

Tomorrow is the send off deadline. If you haven't been a part of OCC, then maybe you will consider it next year.

Here is a look at our box of what we chose to send:

The boys chose to give the goodies to another boy. We filled it up with items from my gift closet that I collect throughout the year. Here is the list of items: a clock with batteries, ornament filled with candy, Gumball machine, Snoopy journal, Puffs Kleenex, mini sized shampoo, conditioner, and body soap, crayons, a stuffed bear, and a set of play dough. We also included a picture of the boys and our address.

Before we closed the box, we took the time to pray for the young boy who would receive this gift, that his heart would be filled with joy and love. I am already looking forward to filling more shoe boxes next year!