How We Are Paying It Forward This Holiday Season

This post is sponsored by Stonyfield as part of my ongoing participation in the Stonyfield Yo-Getters ambassador program. All opinions are my own.

I have vivid memories of making a Christmas list with all of my favorite things as a little girl. One year I wanted a Cabbage Patch Kid. Another year I wanted a boom box. As a teenager, I wanted nothing more than a pair of Jordache jeans. Hello, 80s!!!

Christmas wasn't an extravagant affair where presents were piled high to the ceiling, but if there was something on my list that I really, really wanted, chances were good that I received it. I understood that the sky wasn't the limited, but I was also fortunate enough to get at least the "most wanted" item on my list.

This year as part of my Santa responsibilities, I'm placing a focus on giving to other children. While it's always fun to receive, part of the joy of the holiday season comes from putting a smile on someone else's face in the form of giving. Whether it's food, a toy, or a much needed hat and scarf set, giving is often more gratifying than receiving.

We are partnering with Toys For Tots to pay it forward this holiday season. In the past, we have joined forces with friends and co-workers to sponsor a family's Christmas. We've also donated to animal rescue organizations by giving toys, treats, and food for the animals to enjoy during the holidays. But this year, it is all about the kiddos.

Stonyfield provided us with a gift card to make a donation and pay it forward to a charity of our choice. I wanted to involve my daughters in our choice of charities. Since they are always appreciative of what they receive, we wanted to brighten the holiday for other little girls.

The girls chose these creative kits where the recipient can make something. A peace sign, a pair of sunglasses, friendship bracelets, and a collage are items that all girls love.

How cute is this peace sign just ready to be decorated with jewels, ribbons, and printed paper?

We gathered up our gifts and delivered them to the nearest Toys For Tots drop-off location (click here to find the drop-off location nearest to you). All gifts are delivered unwrapped so that Toys For Tots can distribute them appropriately. What a great feeling knowing that our donations will put a smile on a child's face on Christmas morning.

Thank you to Stonyfield for sponsoring this post and providing a gift card to facilitate our shopping experience for our Toys For Tots donation.