There are so many things to do during the Christmas season, sometimes it can get a bit overwhelming.  This week I really wanted to slow things down and have a slow--but fun--week for the kids.  I also told the kids that this week was about taking the focus off ourselves and the anticipation of Christmas morning, and thinking and giving to others.  We sent out our Christmas cards and the kids wrapped their gifts to each other.  We also shopped for and donated gifts to the Giving Tree--Franny for a girl age 6-8, Cole for a boy age 3-5, and Delaney for a girl age 2.  I was impressed with how thoughtful they were about their selections and what a child their age would like to have.  I love it when I can see in their face that they really understand what they are doing and why.  We also made a trip to the Oregon Humane Society with dog and cat treats and toys, which we placed under their giving tree.  It was quite a drive, so we spent some time looking at the pictures of all the animals that were adopted this month.  This was our first time making this trip, and the kids really liked taking our gifts to the animals.  It really has been a nice week and I think it was a great way to lead up to the Christmas weekend.