Yes, I’m on that subject again.  But while I’ve mentioned that we’re going to alter our Holiday this year, I haven’t really gone into what we’re going to do…and what you can do to do the same.

For our family charitable event, we’ve signed up for Adopt A US Soldier.  I can’t imagine anything more important than to send some of our troops caring support.  I’m hoping to send a care package, even if they may not get it by Christmas, they’ll get it soon after.  Even if you can only send a letter…isn’t it worth it to brighten the day of a man or woman that is fighting for our country?! Even if you don’t agree with the war, you can support our troops!

Did you know that the current economic climate isn’t just affecting you and me…but innocent pets?!  I received a letter today about a local shelter that is beyond capacity.  On Sunday they received 16 abandoned dogs ALONE!!  How can you help?  Well, if you can’t adopt a furry critter…consider taking one in as a foster pet.  Help ease the burdon on the shelters, possibly save an animal’s life!! 

Monetary donations are another idea.  Think of a type of charity you’d like to help out.  Cancer research, Sick Children and their Families, the Homeless, in the US (or your country) or Abroad.  Not sure of a specific charity you’d like to contribute to?  Do a search for an appropriate charity.  My biggest advice here is…even after finding a charity via a site like that, RESEARCH the charity thoroughly yourself.  Make sure your funds are going toward the cause more than someone’s pocketbook.  Some of the bigger charities line their pockets as much/more than their own mission (I won’t name names…but at least one of them the company I used to work for tried to force me to contribute to, I refused on ground of priniciple).  So research yoru charity, then donate.  Even just a few dollars can help!  I think we all know which charity I support most.

And of course…your time.  Find a local shelter, a soup kitchen, a church that does something for the holidays.  From project Angel Tree, to serving meals to the homeless or homebound, most churches perform some action.  Donate your time…it’s more valuable than anything.

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I know…not your typical post from me…but I’ve been bitten by the bug.  And the letter about the animal shelter broke my heart.  I hope you find some way to make your holidays more joyous this year!!

(Sorry…I’ve been knee deep in graphics and coding since yesterday trying to create 4 new semi-matching layouts for me and BFF and our soon-to-be-open review site, my soon-to-be-re-opened writing blog, and finally a halfway decent layout for this site.  I’m a little cross-eyed and short on creativity for posting about now :D)