Pocket Change
Sweet Thanks
Bake cookies for everyone who helps you out during the year—your barista, the front desk employees at your kid's school, the parking attendant at your favorite restaurant who always pulls your car around quickly. Think about the people who aren't usually thanked, but definitely deserve it.
Photo via Flickr/Svante Adermark
Carols and Community
Sign up to sing carols at a senior living facility or nursing home, and bring your kids along. This is a great way to bring a sense of community to people who might otherwise be alone.
Photo via Flickr/USAG- Humphreys
School Spirit
Grab an extra coffee in the morning and bring it to the school crossing guard. He or she will appreciate knowing someone is thinking about them just as much as they'll appreciate a hot drink to stay warm.
Photo via Flickr/Pam Lane
Knitting Needles
Learn to knit with your kids and make hats, scarves and mittens to donate. This is a creative way to have a little fun and teach your children about true holiday spirit.
Photo via Flickr/Michael Newton
In Honor Of ...
Instead of asking for gifts you don't really need, request that a donation be made in your name to a cause you care about. Encourage your kids to do the same, and make it a learning experience by helping them research charities to support.
Photo via Flickr/U.S. Department of Agriculture
Airport Cheer
As you make your way through crowded holiday airports, smile at the TSA workers and thank them for their service. As gruff as they may come across, can you even imagine what it's like having to deal with long lines of anxious holiday travelers? Your smile really can make a difference in their day.
Photo via Flickr/alist
