30 Days Until #Christmas! #ShoeboxLove

It's the most wonderful time of the year! Now that Remembrance Day has come and gone, American Thanksgiving is around the corner, and Santa has visited our community, it's about time we start thinking of Christmas. Christmas is my favourite time of year; the parties, the cheer, the gifts and goodwill. It seems everyone is just HAPPIER around the holidays. Wouldn't it be nice if it could be Christmas all year long?! 

I speak of Christmas, because, well, I'm Christian. But regardless, if you celebrate Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or something else, there is a certain magic this time of year. 

Today, November 25, marks the one month countdown until Christmas Day, but the holiday season seems to get longer and longer each year (not that I'm complaining). Over the next month, Simply Suppa will be devoting all posts to the holidays -- that means gift ideas, experiences, crafts, DIY, restaurant suggestions, charitable causes -- all things I think are super, especially this time of year. 

I call it the.....

Cute, huh? I'm no graphic designer, but I think I did a good job! :) Thanks to Pic Monkey for the help! So, today marks 30 DAYS! 

I start my Christmas Countdown with a really cool initiative: The Shoebox Project. How would you like to turn an empty shoebox into a gift for a girl or woman who is less fortunate? It's easy, affordable and makes you feel really good.

Here's what you do:

1. Find an empty shoebox (not boot box) and decorate it, so you can still open it. 
2. Fill the box with items that you love, and little luxuries you'd like to share with other women. (ie. make-up, tissues, socks, nailpolish, scarf, tea, subway tokens, gift cards) The items must be new and not used. The total value of the box should not exceed $50. Please do not include razors or items containing nuts. 
3. Add an inspirational message to the box.
4. Drop off your box at a supporting location near you. Here's a list of all the locations in York Region, but please visit the website for a location near your home or business. The boxes are all inspected before being delivered to the local shelters.
5. The deadline is December 10!

Last year, in York Region, the Shoebox Project helped women and girls at Yellow Brick House, Sandgate and ETA Vaughan Women's Shelter. 

I think this is a wonderful cause and a great feel-good project for young girls all the way up to adult women. I also love that it supports women in our own communities who would really appreciate some of the luxuries many people take fore granted every day.

Here's another idea: instead of exchanging gifts among girlfriends, why not make a shoebox each to donate?

For more information on The Shoebox Project and how you can make your own box, please visit their website. 

We're off to a good start! Come back soon for more great ideas!