Christian Eclectic Homeschool Mom of Three - Forget the Birthday Presents -- Membership, the Gift that Gives Back

Tuesday, May 29, 2007 - Forget the Birthday Presents -- Membership, the Gift that Gives Back

Howdy,

I've finally gotten over my "blogger-block" and been inspired to share something that I think will be a blessing to others.

As you know, I have 3 children, but what some of you might not know is that they all share one room and just about everything that is near and dear to them shares that room too. My children also have a very generous extended family that wants to give, give, give. I am thankful for their generosity, but we ran out of room in our home for it quite a few years ago.

Oh, giftcards? Oh, yeah, they're great and we get those too, but I started asking for something I think has been the gift that gives back: membership to the Wildlife Conservation Society. With this membership we have been able to enjoy local zoos and a nearby aquarium all year long. We got the all inclusive membership that gave us unlimited admission (plus admission for 2 guests), unlimited admission to special exhibits (which are usually an additional cost for non-members), 4 parking passes, a subscription to their bi-monthly magazine and a free T-shirt. My membership costs $150 for the family (1 to 100 kids - the price is the same no matter what your size, yippey!), however, please visit their website for current pricing and benefits for each $$ level: www.wcs.org. Your membership also helps wildlife conservation efforts here and around the globe.

Our very generous family did me one better last Christmas: they gave us a week in their Florida timeshare and tix for the kids to go to DisneyWorld! We went back in April and had a great time (even though I was a bit skeptical that we would).

How'd I do it? I asked that instead of giving gifts, could they give something for our "field trip fund". I got the idea from a friend who saves money in an envelope for her kids just for those times when your out and the kids want a pony ride or an icecream or whatever. Field trip money is money I don't feel guilty spending.

Now, don't get me wrong. My kids still get gifs of toys and what-not as well as parties, but this has been the kind of gift that doesn't take up room in our limited living space and doesn't break (although memberships do expire as mine will in just a few weeks).

Let your mind run wild. What places do your kids enjoy? Seek out a membership and save.

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