Have you noticed that Christmas paraphernalia has hit the stores already? It really does seem like it’s happening earlier and earlier every year. I love a lot of things about Christmas, spending time with my loved ones, my children’s excitement, great food.

I don’t really love that it means an influx of new toys in my already overflowing house. My children are so lucky to have more than they will ever need, that they will probably never know a day of not having enough to eat, or enough to buy news clothes if they need them, or even enough for a special treat occasionally.

This year for Christmas, we are making up some boxes for Operation Christmas Child, a unique project of Samaritan’s Purse that brings joy and hope to children in desperate situations around the world through gift-filled shoe boxes.

Each shoebox contains a variety of gifts that are fun and educational, including something to love, something for school, something to wear, personal hygiene, something to play with and something special.

The website has lots of ideas of things to buy (and also guidelines for what not to include) as well as labels and information on where to send your boxes.

I have found this a great thing to do with my four year old as he helps me choose different gifts and we talk about other little boys and girls who do not have very much. It would also be a great thing to do with a mother’s group or with a few friends, to get together and make a variety of shoe boxes. Or perhaps you could ask people at your workplace to donate items … there are lots of ways you can be involved to help make these childrens’ Christmas just that little bit brighter.

For more information, check out the website - Operation Christmas Child.