Oh Beth–this is such a wonderful idea. How can we forget our furry friends? I am such an “animal person” too….And I didn’t even think about making a donation to their cause this season!! That will definitely make my list for next year….and I am sure you provided inspiration for other blog followers.

Love this idea, Rhiannon! I am heading to an elephant sanctuary in Thailand next month!! Will need to leave an extra donation.

We bring a load of donated items to a thrift store that gives proceeds to animal groups that care for abandoned, abused, sick and injured animals. I try to time the donations the month or two before Christmas so low income families looking for gifts might find something nice that they’d like.

Maybe you could sing them carols or read the Night Before Christmas (or other story) to them. Or, this requires more planning perhaps, but if you each have a copy of a same holiday movie (or any movie), you could agree to start watching it at a certain time, then do an “intermission” where you call/skype to discuss your favorite scenes, etc. and then watch the end and talk a bit more.

How about leaving some extra cash at a doctor’s or dentist’s office and ask them to put it towards the bill of a patient who they think could use some extra help.

Donate clothes or shoes to Dress for Success or another charity.

Deliver a meal or acceptable candy and treats to a diabetic, a FODMAP-er, or person on a special diet.

Is there someone who has trouble getting out and about? Offer to take them with your family and drive around some local neighborhoods to look at lights.

Finally, reach out to a friend you may have lost touch with and arrange for a meetup in January…keeps that Christmas feeling of friendship going and shows the person you aren’t reconnecting “just for the holidays.”