Only the Good Friday - The One Where I Find The Spirit of Christmas

It is time once again for Shelly's "Only The Good Friday", the project to help good thoughts, good things, good cheer, throughout the interwebs.

And what better time to spread good tidings than Christmas time? Can you believe it is December 5th already? That means Christmas is MERELY 20 days away.

I don't know about you, but it completely snuck up on me this year. I have done exactly ZERO preparations, so I really need to get cracking. Usually by this time, I'm well on my way to being done shopping, and have usually had my decorations up for at least a week, if not longer. This year? Not so much.

But, I'm actually not at all stressed about this fact. I'm excited. I'm looking forward to decorating this weekend, and putting my list together, and hitting the stores. I'm breaking out the Christmas music, and the hot chocolate (shh, don't tell Jenny), and maybe taking a ride out to see some Christmas lights. All good things. I love this time of year.

I'm also looking forward to doing some good for others. You can help too.

What can you do?

Well, for starters, it appears that Toys for Tots is having a hard time reaching their necessary numbers this year. So, you can help. Look up your local Toys for Tots organization online, and find out where they have some drop-off locations. Then pick up and drop off an unrwrapped toy. They are especially in need of toys for newborns to 2 year olds. How easy it is to shop for a baby gift, and EVERYONE loves to buy baby gifts.

Other things you can do? Look up local Soup Kitchens and see if you can lend a helping hand. We're doing our monthly Community Kitchen with our youth group on December 20th. What a great way to start off Christmas week, don't you think?

When you hear that bell outside the stores, you know the one, the one that Santa is ringing by the Salvation Army bucket, instead of rolling your eyes and walking by, reach in your pocket, drop in a few coins. You won't miss them, they're just rattling around in the bottom of your purse anyway.

Here's a really easy, and completely FREE one: Smile at people. When everyone else is pushing and shoving and being bitten by the Scrooge bug out at the malls, just smile. Say hello, Merry Christmas, Have a Nice Day. You'll be amazed what wonders a smile can do.

Good things...Good Tidings to you! Let's keep the spirit alive this season, because isn't that what it's all about?