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a simple gift

shoebox

Every year, Samaritan's Purse and individuals like you and me bless children with a simple gift. A shoebox filled with small toys, gifts, treats, and necessities. If you're not familiar with the Operation Christmas Child project, I encourage you to check it out. I also challenge you to watch some of the videos of children receiving these boxes, and then not bawl like a baby. It doesn't matter how many times I watch, they get me every time.

This year, I was thinking about some of the quick and easy things that I could make to include in the shoebox I send. I love giving handmade to my friends and family, so why not for the child I send this gift to? After a look back at my blog, I've found a few ideas and suggestions. These don't take long to make, but would be appreciated, I'm sure.

felt friends

Felt Friends are easy to make, and they would most certainly be loved by a child.

3 Bears Mitten Puppets!

Puppet Mittens (perhaps with a story book?) or a Fish Puppet make for some fun times and warm hands.

all finished

Mini Books (with or without the embroidery) or Notepads (converted to a Christmas or any time design) are simple to make yourself, and kids of all ages love drawing and writing in them. You can make a bunch to share!

Chevron Felt Friendship Bracelet

A Felt Friendship Bracelet lets a child wear and remember their gift long after Christmas. For a quicker version, how about a Mystery Braid?

These are just a few ideas, but whether you make something special, buy items at the dollar store, or anyplace else, remember that a simple gift will make a huge difference in the life of a child.

Are you sending an Operation Christmas Child shoebox? Do you have any ideas for handmade gifts that could be made and included before it's time to send off the boxes? Please share!

9 comments:

  1. I had never heard of this before, but it is definitely something I am interested in doing. Thanks for bringing it to my attention!

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  2. We are about to fill our box. I hadn't thought of including something handmade, but now I really want to. A fabric headband might be cute.

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  3. Anonymous10:24 AM

    How adorable!

    I just love your blog. :) It makes my heart happy!

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  4. i did this last year. it was so much fun & your craft ideas are awesome! :)

    emma

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  5. this is incredible !


    -grace
    http://herumbrella.com

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  6. our children's group met to fill shoeboxes last wednesday night...it was amazing to see their excitement over doing something kind for another child...what got to me the most was seeing how the less fortunate kids in our group were the most excited to share with others...it was like they were imagining how they would feel opening up a shoebox on Christmas...love your blog and all that you do! hugs!!!

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  7. I've been needing a Christmas charity and this is perfect - hubby and I will start this weekend. I even have a couple of pairs of gloves (those one size fits all) to add - and maybe a handmade dollie with her own blanket?

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  8. yay! I am working on a couple boxes at the moment, it is my first time being involved and I am looking forward to making it a tradition :)

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  9. What a great post, Molie! I'm a big fan of Operation Christmas Child. Thanks for encouraging us to include a little something handmade.

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