12 days of Christmas

For 12 days, with the twelfth day being on Christmas Eve, we have great fun!

It all begins with a meeting, at the beginning of December, during our regular Family Council. Our "12 days" family could be picked for many different reasons , they may be having a hard time with problems in their family, or money or just because we feel that they are the right family.

Once we decide on the family, we make a list of fun things to do for them. These ideas take into consideration their interests and the age of their children. Our surprises have ranged from a picture frame, disposable camera and the cost of developing the film to a basket filled with baking supplies for the holidays.

We always begin our "12 days" with a note asking that they not try and find us out. We have often gone to the door, after dark, to deliver our gift and found a note taped to the door, addressed to the "Elves" , thanking us and expressing their excitement. It has been so much fun to do.

On the last day, which would fall on Christmas Eve, we have dropped off a gift for individual family members and included another letter wishing them a Merry Christmas and thanking them for the opportunity to do this.

Our family has looked forward to this tradition and it emphasizes the Giving rather than the Getting.

Here are some ideas, but use your imagination, and send us your ideas to add to the list.

• Pie shell and a bottle of apple slices, ready for apple pie
• Ice cream and the supplies for sundaes or banana splits
• A special cookie cutter
• A tree ornament
• Candles
• Bubble bath
• A children’s book
• A jar of candy
• A plate of cookies
• A Christmas music CD
• A video
• A picture frame, camera and money for development
• Basket of baking supplies
• A gift certificate to a restaurant
• A puppet
• Supplies to create a craft item
• A board or card game
• Nuts
• Fruit basket
• Popcorn and cranberries to string
• Popcorn and a bowl
• Hang a bell on their door handle
• Rootbeer and ice cream to make their own floats

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