It's funny, I really don't buy into all of the hype surrounding Christmas, but I seem to be on the treadmill like everyone else.  First there was Thanksgiving and guests, then Elliot's school Holiday Bazaar and guests, then next week there's the Advent Spiral at E's school, a get together with the ladies in my neighborhood, then E's birthday and very small party (and the celebration at school which requires 2 capes to be sewn and a cake to be baked), and then some travels to two out of town destinations all leading up to the big day.  Can I curl up in the fetal position now?  Ah well, I'm sure it will all be over in the blink of an eye.  I'll just try to keep it as simple as possible. 

I'm curious what you all think of this "Give One, Get One" concept.   Is that what the children of the world need-- laptops?  I'm not saying the answer is no, just that we shouldn't assume that the answer is yes.  Hmmm...I'd love some concrete examples of how this will improve their lives.  I took a quick look at the website and didn't find them, but haven't fully explored it.  Sort of reminds me of when Karin Blixen opened the school in Out of Africa (my favorite movie), making a lot of assumptions along the way about what "the other" people needed.  Even some of the language on the site rubs me the wrong way-- "to contribute to a more productive and saner world community."  Huh?? 

OK, sorry for the rant, I'm just not convinced.

Update: I replied to comments below rather than individually.