On Tour With the Kid | So, This is Christmas

TEACHING A CHILD NOT TO STEP ON A CATERPILLAR IS JUST AS IMPORTANT TO THE CHILD AS IT IS TO THE CATERPILLAR.

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Years ago, we went to the happiest place on earth, Bunnings, and made our own advent calendar. It's a tiny little house with the idea that it's all very nice to get a treat on the countdown to Christmas, but it's also a chance to remind each other that what you give is more important than what you get.

Every morning, along with the chocolate, the kid gets a little note about what we can do that day for someone else and, in a small way, make our tiny corner of the world a better place. Our list is not for everyone. Some things are very specific to our family. The news has been hard to watch lately, and it feels like there is no way to keep it from any kid with access to a device. I felt like this was the way to talk about what is within our control and what we can do to make our tiny corner of the world a little nicer.

December 1

It's bloody expensive being a woman.

I can't even imagine how awful it would feel not to be able to get everything we need to wash our hair and take care of our period. No one should have to decide between tampons and food or not being able to afford either. That just shouldn't be a thing. Share the Dignity takes donations for In the Bag, which collects handbags filled with goodies to give to women who need them. We do this every year, but this year, I thought we could do a few extra to try and make a few more people smile.

We did this early this year as the cut-off was 26 November, and bags filled with the items can be dropped off at Bunnings. You can donate money to these guys all year round to help with the same issue at www.sharethedignity.org.au.

December 5

Today, kiddo, we are making some happy boxes!

The remote op-shop project works with shops in all different remote indigenous areas. Their Facebook page always makes suggestions about what the communities need at the time. Clothes are always welcome, but at the moment, they are trying to get to 100 boxes filled with toiletries, pads, soap, hair products and a few other nice things for women who need them. We are going to help out and make 5. Let's go shopping! (Please note: this is what they needed when we wrote this, but needs are constantly changing – so check before you shop.). Go to www.remoteopshopproject.org

December 13

We have the best neighbours in the world.

Both at our place and MaMa's, and the presents you make are always more meaningful than the presents you buy. Today, we will use MaMa's shortbread recipe and GG's Anzac Biscuit recipe and deliver them to the people we share space with and wish them Merry Christmas.

December 15

Celebrate with your friends today!

You have reached a huge milestone in your school life and today. I’m so proud of you, and self-care is part of caring for the world. You look after yourself today, baby. Feel all the emotions and all the excitement of a new adventure.

Just the idea of getting to do all of that with the kid makes it feel more like Christmas. I hope you are surrounded by love and good vibes this holiday season.