Sub 4 Santa

I just wanted to take a moment to share what an incredible program Sub 4 Santa is. Last Christmas our family was one in need and it was so incredible to have the community reach out and help. It touched our hearts so much and we considered the whole experience a Christmas miracle. We learned and grew so much from the love that was shared with our family. We do know without a doubt that Heavenly Father is aware of our needs, hopes and desires. Its not the gifts that matter it is the love and incredible spirit that is felt. One that is etched in our hearts forever. By the way we participated in Sub for Santa this year and it has been such a wonderful experience!!! Last year we were recipients and it was my goal this year to give back and sponsor a family. At first we didn't have that much to spend may be $30-$50 so we couldn't get a ton of stuff but with sales you can really make the money stretch. So we received family #35 a single dad who has been living in his car when his ex wife dumped all 4 kids off at the car and had had it- ages 4, 5, 6,& 7 it really touched my heart. SO we dug into our pockets a little further and spent a bit over $80 and got so many things off the list, clothes, hair ties, toys etc etc So for FHE we talked about the true meaning of Christmas and how we get to be "Santa" to another family (who will never meet us) we wrapped it all together with great love in our hearts then dropped the presents off at the coordinators house and went out to dinner. It was a great night one we will always remember and such a great lesson for the kids. I told them that they would get less this year in order to participate and they fully agreed that it was a good and fun cause and that they too wanted to contribute. We are very hopeful that next year we will be able to contribute even more. It has truly brought the spirit of Christmas into our home and has made the holidays seem warmer and brighter.And by the way at our house Santa doesn't bring much. We all give each other presents Noah buys something for everyone, Jordan , Aidan etc( I shop with each of them), Then Brandon and I get them a ton (too much most of the time) and Santa just brings ONE toy unwrapped that they find Christmas morning and the stockings of course. SO Santa isn't too big around here we focus on us being Santas to each other. The true meaning of Christmas is in the giving not the getting. We are so grateful that Heavenly Father gave us His son as our brother, our friend and our Savior it is up to us to mimic this behavior and give to one another as a symbol of our love and gratitude for each other and Jesus Christ. May you all have a very Merry Christmas!