Christmas Countdown Day 21: Give ... to Make a Difference!

Is giving only about "stuff"--or is it a reflection of the heart? Plan to make a gift of yourself this holiday season.

This week in the Christmas Countdown, we've focused on gifts and giving--and 99% of the time, we've seen this effort in terms of "things." Stuff. Boxes and parcels and bags. Stocking stuffers. But have we considered making a true gift: a gift of ourselves?

In the days to come, we'll begin planning the American Thanksgiving holiday. Will we also begin to ponder those things for which we are thankful? Out of gratitude comes grace, and from abundance comes true giving.

Challenge yourself and your family to make a difference, this holiday season and beyond--to make a true gift of yourselves. Teach someone a new skill. Tackle a service project as a family. Visit an assisted living center, or take part in a church ministry.

Don't just share your stuff this season: share yourself! The real secret? When you give of yourself, you are returned blessings tenfold!

to do today ... holiday scheduling!

Calendar in hand, review holiday season activities and events. Consider adding "family night" to the calendar to provide stress relief during the height of the season.

Schedule family service projects, or sign up for church charity efforts.

Reserve baby-sitters for December's nights out.

today's recipe ...

Apricot Nut Bread is a sweet addition to holiday gift baskets. One of Cynthia's specialties!

Apricot Nut Bread Recipe