Last year, Chuck's family decided not to exchange gifts for Christmas, and instead, we exchanged names to do service in the name of that one person (read the details about it here). Last year, was such a wonderful experience, we did it again this Christmas. We all post about our experiences on a blog that we wait to read on Christmas morning. Once again it was amazing.
I think one of the best things about doing this type of "gift" exchange is that I have felt so much closer to those members of the family that I am performing my service for and who is serving me. Many of us do not live close to one another and some I haven't ever really gotten to spend a vast amount of time with, so I love feeling connected to those family members.
Serving others is also a great way to feel closer to your Heavenly Father and your Savior, Jesus Christ. It allows us to feel the true spirit of Christmas and celebrating the birth of Jesus, instead of getting caught up in the commercialization of it all.
Please feel free to read about all of our gifts of service.
Char's gift to Ashley - woohoo!
Chuck's gift to Mitzi - be sure to comment on that blog if you want to be a recipient of his service
Ryan's gift to Chuck - totally worth the long read and if you know Chuck you will know how much this meant to him.
Some friends and family members have told us that after reading about our family's experience last year, they decided to do it with their own families this year. If so, we would love to hear about it. If you have a blog that you would like us to link please let me know.
As a twist for next year (Christmas 2011), we decided to draw names now, so that we can have all year to think about and do a service for our recipient family member. I'm excited!
Also read about Chuck's parent's 18 months of service on a mission in Congo, Africa. Check out their blog here. They just posted about an amazing experience of spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ.
I love your service idea and we wanted to do it this year, but we didn't get it together in time. So, hopefully next year! Our FHE last night was on listening to the promptings of the spirit and I read the kids the Missionary blog story and they really enjoyed it! Thanks for sharing that!
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