Bark in the Park-support the SPCA!

We'll be heading over at some point during the day to check out all the fun! For more information go HERE!  

Our Change Jar Experiment

I purchased an inexpensive money jar that counts the money as you put it in, last year after Christmas. We decided we'd just put change in it & see how far that got us---we didn't have plans for what to do with the money after a year, we were just interested in finding out how much we could collect.

As the end of the year approached, I wanted to find a way for my children to focus on giving at Christmas-in came the change jar.  We took it to our local bank for counting & had over $150---IN CHANGE!  I was digging through the car, my purse, etc at the end to get the kids as much money as possible.  Here is what we decided to do with our money.

Half of the money would be put into the kids saving accounts.  While it is important to give, it is also important to save money!  The rest of the money was split in half again & given to each child.  The rules were simple.  This half was to be used to buy your sibling a gift and to donate to the charity of your choosing.  Both my kids loved this idea and immediately knew where they wanted their money to go.

My 5 year old  said, "I want to help Santa and be an elf!"  He purchased toys that he didn't have but would love. I'm sure a 5 year old boy somewhere will be so happy with his choices!  He also picked up a great gift for his sister, exactly what she wanted!

My 9 year old daughter is an animal lover and she wanted to donate to the Delaware County SPCA.  She decided to purchase a few gifts for her brother with money she already had, then used her change jar money to purchase dog treats, bones and food  for the SPCA.

This little experiment showed me so much about my kids---in such a good way.  Not once did either of them ask why they couldn't spend the money on themselves plus they knew exactly where they wanted their money to go to help others.  They also got each other very thoughtful gifts, that they'll both enjoy, so I know really wanted to make the other one happy. s.

I have a feeling this little experiment will happen for many more years, my kids loved it, I loved it & I really think it helped my children to understand that Christmas is about giving & not always receiving.  Giving is fun & makes you feel good too.  I can't wait until they open each other's gifts on Christmas morning!

Pictures with Santa, you can even bring the dog!

Claus & Paws hosted by the Swarhtmore Community Center

Saturday, December 1st from 9 am-noon

Family & dog friendly Pictures with Santa to benefit the SPCA

Cost: Monetary Donation

Where: Swarthmore Community Center 715 Harvard Avenue Swarthmore

More info: www.swarthmorecommunitycenter.org

In addition to photos with Santa, the Community Center will also be hosting a towel & sheets drive for the SPCA, please drop them off during the event!  

Pets of the Week-Check out these cuties!!!

Brandi: Tortoiseshell & brown tabby
Medium Young Female Cat Pet ID: 46526

Say hello to your next Mom! Once known as “Mom,” this beautiful Tortoiseshell-brown tabby blend (aka a Torbie) is now known as Brandi 'cause the Delco SPCA receives so many mom cats, her name seemed a little unoriginal for her wonderful temperament. But we bet she's as sweet as any great mom you know. She's patiently waiting for you in her cozy little box at the Adoption Center for just a $20.12 adoption fee, as throughout the month of February, Brandi is one of 10 felines known as “Most Wanted Valentines.” Hurry, hurry and rescue Brandi today. She's been homeless since October, and that's just too long for a pretty kitty. Consider bringing Brandi home with one of her feline friends 6 months or older in the Delco SPCA’s ongoing “Save a Paw, Get a Paw” adoption special — two cats with a lifetime of love to give at one specially low adoption fee!

Rhawn: Boxer/ Pit Bull Terrier mix
Medium Adult Male Dog Pet ID: 48533

Rhawn is a lovable, silly 1-2-year-old guy that loooves people! It’s obvious he’s part Boxer with the signature Boxer wiggle-butt! He's very social and just wants to please people and be told what a good boy he is. Rhawn is a ball of energy. He plays a little rough with other dogs, so while he can live with canine friends, they should be on the submissive side so Rhawn can be the man of the house. With Rhawn’s limitless energy, he would make a great hiking or jogging partner. It is suggested that he go to a home with children 8 and older because of his energy level. This smart boy knows “sit” and almost knows the meaning of “stay,” and we know there’s plenty more for him to learn with his forever family. One look at his sweet face and soft eyes that beg, “Please take me home with you!” and he’s yours! Stop in to the Adoption Center in Media to meet Rhawn today. Rhawn is already neutered and vaccinated, and now through Valentine’s Day, his adoption fee includes a coupon for a free meal for his new family and a box of treats for him!

Hours for adoption are Monday through Saturday from 12:00 to 7:00 p.m. and Sunday from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. Throughout the year, the Delco SPCA is offering an Alley Cat Special in which a cat can receive a physical exam, spay/neuter, necessary vaccinations and FeLV/FIV combo test for just $75. Call 610-566-1370 option 3 to book an appointment for your cat or an alley cat today