Thank you for helping ThanksUSA reach our $15 million giving milestone this year! That’s 4,710 total scholarships and countless opportunities awarded to military spouses and kids since 2006.
Please enjoy these special military family holiday memories, shared by current ThanksUSA scholars.
Please enjoy these special military family holiday memories, shared by current ThanksUSA scholars.
Lauren
One year, we PCS’d the week of Christmas. We went to a Christmas tree lot and got their very last tree when the movers left at 8 p.m. on Christmas Eve. It was tiny, but it made our whole Christmas decorating that tree amidst the chaos of a new home and new town. It’s times like that we remember, and it makes us thankful to be together and appreciate the small things!
One year, we PCS’d the week of Christmas. We went to a Christmas tree lot and got their very last tree when the movers left at 8 p.m. on Christmas Eve. It was tiny, but it made our whole Christmas decorating that tree amidst the chaos of a new home and new town. It’s times like that we remember, and it makes us thankful to be together and appreciate the small things!
| Ericka This year I was able to take my kiddos to the parade of lights. Unfortunately, this is not something my husband, who is a Veteran, can do because of the crowds. However, the kids had a blast and I am so grateful for these memories with them. Next weekend my husband will join us in gingerbread house decorating! (pictured at right) |  |
Erin
When I was seven years old, my family was the recipient of a Christmas service project, the 12 Days of Christmas. Each evening, our doorbell rang and there was a little gift accompanied by a note. It was so special for us, because my mom was pregnant with my little brother, who was due at the beginning of January. She was so tired and was finding it hard to do those "extra" little things that make Christmas so special. We anxiously awaited these nightly surprises!
On the 12th night, Christmas Eve, we were ready to find out the identity of our little elves. When the doorbell rang, we sprang out the door and chased them with a gift of our own. My parents were surprised to find out that the family was Mrs. Hilton and her three young children. Her husband, Lieutenant Hilton, had died unexpectedly that summer. She had determined that she and her children were going to focus on the joy of serving others that Christmas. What her family did for mine was an example we will never forget.
When I was seven years old, my family was the recipient of a Christmas service project, the 12 Days of Christmas. Each evening, our doorbell rang and there was a little gift accompanied by a note. It was so special for us, because my mom was pregnant with my little brother, who was due at the beginning of January. She was so tired and was finding it hard to do those "extra" little things that make Christmas so special. We anxiously awaited these nightly surprises!
On the 12th night, Christmas Eve, we were ready to find out the identity of our little elves. When the doorbell rang, we sprang out the door and chased them with a gift of our own. My parents were surprised to find out that the family was Mrs. Hilton and her three young children. Her husband, Lieutenant Hilton, had died unexpectedly that summer. She had determined that she and her children were going to focus on the joy of serving others that Christmas. What her family did for mine was an example we will never forget.
| Jessica Our daughter, a Navy Sailor, flew in for Thanksgiving and shared a wonderful feast. The following day we went into the forest and our whole family got to select and cut down our Christmas tree. The last day of her leave, our Sailor stood at the flag pole and saluted her father, an Army Veteran. It was a precious moment. Adrienne Being a military kid sometimes means being far away from family, but you can still have great holidays far from those you love. One of my favorite Christmas memories was skyping family to play games together despite 2,000 miles between us. |  |
| Christina My favorite holiday memories are of going to Christmas Eve candle light services with our whole family. The songs, the candles, and the love that fills the sanctuary brings joy and peace to my heart as I reflect on our Savior’s birth. (pictured at right) Michelle A special holiday memory was getting a surprise call from my father when he was deployed to Afghanistan. We were not expecting any communication, but as always he didn’t disappoint us and at 3 a.m. we got the Skype call! Creed Each winter, the week before Christmas my grandmother and I make all of our favorite candy from scratch, melting caramel, chocolate and marshmallows to make turtles, chocolate-covered pretzels and more! My family means the world to me, and this lasting tradition will always be one of the fondest memories of my childhood. |  |
Lisa
I am most grateful for family and friends this time of year. Relationships and spending quality time together are the best part of the holiday season. (pictured below)
I am most grateful for family and friends this time of year. Relationships and spending quality time together are the best part of the holiday season. (pictured below)
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