the angels christmas donations

i am so proud of my sweet girl. friends of our run a local charity and assist those who don't have enough to provide for themselves, particularly at times when they may need a little extra something in many areas - like christmas! earlier this month, they asked if anyone could assist by donating things that could be a gift for young children for christmas. 

when i asked madeline if she wanted to help, she didn't hesitate for a second, she went straight into her room and starting putting things in a bag - which became a box and then a giant blue ikea bag! she was so happy to do it too, wanting others to have a nice christmas like she knew she would have.

i was especially touched when our friend aniwas, who is part of the charity went out of her way to mention madeline and her kindness on their page post about christmas. it was the icing on the cake.

what a wonderful thing to do. this is just a small part of all that was given, but you can see madeline's things make up a large part of this section. i'm so proud of my girl. ❤

 

thanksgiving 2016

i went to the temple for the very first time with dominique on thanksgiving. doug and i went went along to do a session with her on thursday, which just happened to be thanksgiving day. we have never been with her as she ended up going through in samoa right before she went on her mission, so it was a lovely experience for us all to be there, together at all. i really can't tell you just how wonderful it is to have her home with us.

i always feel like i have a bit of a claim on thanksgiving seeing as my grandfather was american, and this year i only had one thought all day... how grateful i am not only to have enough for myself, but to have enough to give. i have so much, everything i need (and want!) and i am able to help others with things they need. that's the greatest blessing of all. ♥