You know what shines?

What shines are parents committed to instilling in their children a sense of responsibility and joy for giving to others.

What really, really shines are parents who do it in such a way that their kids truly discover what fun giving can be.

And, what really, really, really shines are parents who are willing to share their successes, so that our families can shine too.

Today's post is compliments of long-time, loyal reader - Robin W.

Robin's idea, which conveniently engaged her EIGHT children in eight days of Chanukah will also work nicely for families who, beginning today, will count down the twelve days until Christmas.  Take a look at what Robin says about her family's ritual of giving:

"Each night is represented by a little box.  You pull it out and flip it around to reveal the “light” of the candle for that night.  Also inside each box is a note of how to bring happiness to someone else.  If it’s your night, you are responsible for doing something related to the idea written on the card.

Examples would be:  

First Night: Take some goodies to a nursing home and spend some time listening to stories.  Owen, 7, drew this night. Her idea was to bring some homemade bread to the nursing home where her grandma is living and to talk to some of the residents.

Third Night: Winter can be cold.  Help a family in need with their electric bill to help them stay warm.  Now, this year, that night was actually Ada’s night, my five year old.  Now, she doesn’t really have the cash or income to hand over money.  But she does know how to make a simple blanket.  So that’s what she is doing for her project.

This is our way of celebrating, but also remembering that being kind to others is an important part of life.  The cards were already in the boxes, but could easily be changed to reflect the thoughts of your family.  If you like this idea, but don’t celebrate Chanukah, consider doing an Advent version."

Help me think fast.  I want to try this, beginning tonight, for the last twelve days leading up to Christmas.  I need twelve prompts.  I'm no Super Mom, though, so make your suggestions manageable.  Manageable = activities I can do with two small boys, requiring little preparation and that can be completed in approximately 30 minutes each night.

Visit us in the Community Forum, labeled Today's Post and tell me whatcha got.

Shining off until tomorrow...