This is not directly a craft, but a reminder and suggestion list for the holidays to give to someone in need, whether it’s someone you know, don’t know, or even dislike- if that’s the way you feel, kook.
One of my favorites is Toys for Tots, sponsored by the Marine Corps. In Cocoa Beach, they’re also collecting for a local Toy Drive over at Juice and Java near the front entrance facing A1A.

Juice and Java’s toy donation box- only put stuff in, it’s not a grab bag, mmmkay?

It’s really a blast to shop for a toy for others, and if you have kids of your own, have them help picking out a toy. My toys will be beach and ocean themed, of course! You don’t have to spend a fortune, and even one small toy can make a difference. Unfortunately, they don’t let you make the toys (grrrrr….), but there’s a lot of reasonably priced toys out there.

• Small bodyboard
• Ocean creature stuffed toy
• Lego (or whatever brand) boat kit
• Play dough!
• Squirt toys
• Dolls dressed for the beach
• Fishing games
• Sea Life picture puzzle
• Sand castle building toys
• Ocean themed coloring books

Just remember to keep the toys unwrapped, but in the original packaging. For me, this is the best part of the season- imparting my love of the ocean and crafts on unsuspecting kids….bwaaahahaha!!