The Last Chimney of Christmas Eve

We paired this snow globe craft with our family's reading of "The Last Chimney of Christmas Eve" by Linda Oatman High.  This is a very sweet legend about a little orphan chimney sweep who is treated kindly one Christmas Eve.  He is given a big red furry coat, because the one he wears is very thin, and a snow globe, which he is instructed to share.  As a result the boy grows up to pass that kindness on to others.  I love the message of kindness to others and the effect that one act of love can have for years to come.  

I received an email last night from a reader who was inspired to serve someone.  I felt the true spirit of Christmas in what she wrote:

"When you were doing the John Bytheway CD giveaway, I looked up the blog of the girl you choose for your winner…I loved her 25 days of service.  

There was one in particular I thought I would try…I went to Starbucks and bought a carmel apple cider and took it to the bell ringer for the Salvation Army.  I went up to him and asked if he liked apple cider.  He said yes.  I told him I had bought it for him to say thank you for standing out in the the cold to serve those in need.  I tried to say Merry Christmas, but I started crying.  I walked into Walmart and stood by the carts crying my eyes out.  

At the same moment I received a text from my husband (who is out of town for the season) saying he was at a restaurant all alone wishing I was with him :).  I texted him back telling him I was standing in Walmart crying, because I gave the bell ringer an apple cider. :) 

It really was an amazing feeling to give like that.  I want to keep doing it!"

You guys might want to check out The Frog Princess's list of 25 Random Acts of Service to get some easy service ideas too!  (Although I know you are all serving a ton already!)

Now, are you interested in making this snow globe with your kids?  It's super easy.
(Just be sure to use the right glue!)

Here's what you need:

-clean glass jars with lids (pickle or olive jars work well)

-distilled water, glycerin, and glitter

-epoxy/non-waterbased glue (no other glue will do!)

-small figurines (Christmasy/wintery stuff)

To assemble:

-Sand down the inside of the lid and wipe clean.

-Arrange figurines to create your winter scene.

-Glue them in place.

-Fill glass jar nearly full with distilled water.

-Add a pinch of glitter (we used silver and translucent glitter).

-Add a drop of glycerin (but not too much) to the water.

-My husband also added dish soap to get the "snow"to fly just right!

(Thanks, Martha, for the instructions!)

I'll be back later with a giveaway from Peaden Scott Designs!