Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Goats

This past week, we were on Goat in our MFW curriculum. We did not really do many extra activities with this one - but there was one thing that was my favorite! And, I thought some of you might enjoy incorporating this as well.

I had read on the message board about donating a goat to a family in another country ~ and loved the idea! I found the suggested book Beatrice's Goat at our library and this was a perfect accompaniment.

In the book, we are introduced to Beatrice and her family. They live in Africa and don't have much at all. But, there is great excitement at the promised coming goat they have been given from a family far away.

Beatrice is placed in charge of the goat and the remainder of the story shows how she learns to appreciate their goat and the changes that the goat brings to their lives. It is amazing what hope a goat can provide a family!

We talked about donating a goat to another family far away and the ladies got out their little banks where coins were counted and added to a jar. I encouraged them to choose some things to get rid of and I would donate some money to the goat fund through that as well.

The same day, David got called in to work extra hours - which meant a little overtime. We agreed that would finish funding our goat! I loved seeing how God provided each step of the way for us to cheerfully give to others.

I've written a letter to include with our donation in hopes that our girls might hear back from the recipients of the goat. While I know it is a very long shot - imagine how that might impact them! So, it is worth a try at the very least.

This was a meaningful activity to me and I hope that continuing to incorporate these types of things will cultivate a giving heart in my children as well!

12 comments:

Unknown said...

We donated a flock of chicks through the Heifer Foundation for Christmas. It was kind of my gift to the family. I made a little ornament with a picture of some chicks on it which will hang on our tree every year to remind us of what we have and what we can do for others. I hope to make it an annual tradition!

I hope your family hears back from the recipients of the goat!

Cheryl said...

Morning Monica!
You do so many wonderful things with your littles to encourage a giving heart in them already. I always look forward to May day when you share what you and the littles do.
This is just another example that you and your hubby are setting for them. Blessings to you as you continue to raise them up in the Lord.

Mom said...

What a great idea! I'll be interested to know if you hear anything from the family who receives your goat. At least you read a story about a similar family who received a goat. What a great lesson in giving! Love you, Mom

Julie Willis said...

We've done the same thing with chicks. We have our own flock and our girls want everyone to have their flock. It made quite an impact on my 9 year old. Very excited as the money grew to buy the chicks!

Katy said...

That is fantastic!!! What a great lesson for your kiddos! I love how it all worked together to get the goat!

Deb said...

What a wonderful idea to do with the kids!!!

angie said...

Go back and re-read your post from yesterday. Do you give to others without knowing them? Do you give selflessly? Do you actions bring joy to others? I think the answers lie in this post. As much as you loved the flowers given to you--think of how thankful the family who receives the goat will be.

rachel@thecupcakesprinklesinlife said...

Yay! I love when this happens...
Teaching our sons and daughters about helping others is so important. I love it when they realize that helping others can mean many different things.

Great Job Monica- keep up the good work! :)

Anonymous said...

Isn't MFW's message board such a great homeschooling tool?I've gotten so many good ideas and much needed advice there.
I hope the girls hear from the family that will be blessed by the goat!
Have a good day!
- Kathi

Shannon said...

This is such a good idea! What a great teaching time for your girls!

I loved your post yesterday as well. We had a very encouraging gift last week from total strangers as well - it's been lifting my spirits all week!

Anonymous said...

Oh Monica, your home is like a little Church....love in action. God bless your mothering skills Monica for you are leading your Little Ones in beautiful Godly ways.

God Bless,
Barbra.

Leanne said...

LOVE THIS IDEA!