Christmas in July

This July you can go out and take your pick of any "Christmas in July" sales.  Typically, these sales are put out by retailers to get rid of excess stock, sometimes Christmas merchandise, to make room for the next season's stock.  Places like Michael's starts putting out their holiday stock in September for all those people who are way ahead of schedule in getting their Christmas crafting done.

One thing I did see when I was out shopping for groceries was a local supermarket which was advertising "Christmas in July."  On inspection I was delighted to read about purchasing an ornament in $5, $10, or $25 denominations to support the Food Bank.  While the Food Bank's biggest time for donations is the holidays, this doesn't mean that the need for food disappears.  Ironically, the need for donations actually lessens in December because of all the holiday parties, get togethers, and abundance of food that can be found all around.  Many people fill up at office parties, or share in potlucks.  This means one could stock up with leftovers for a couple of days.

Plus there are usually more free events celebrating the season such as church suppers which help the hungry survive the season.  The season of giving helps many who are hungry.  So, this summer celebrate the holidays by taking part in your Christmas in July.  Buy a little extra and give to your local food bank.  Make your summer merry and bright.