Twelve Days of Christmas

It’s 12 Days of Christmas time at our house. For the past several years, our family has spent the 12 nights leading up to Christmas day hanging out by the tree and reflecting on the year past, and the year ahead . Each evening, one of our five asks a question. Some are easy, some reflective, some debate-provoking. Each of us provide our response. When everyone’s had their say we hand out stockings. We do one stocking-stuffer per night. Socks, gum, and undies make an annual showing.

This tradition is continuing into our sons’ adult years. It’s getting a bit challenging to sort out real-life schedules (we’re doing some very late-night 12 Days this year!), but we all eventually land in the same room, ready to harass, support, and squabble with each other.

Starting the conversation

Some of our questions this year have included

What is your favorite holiday food? Why — is there a memory associated with it?

What was a high point of the past year? A low point? Is there a character quality that you possess that contributed to the high point?

What is the greatest risk you’ve taken this year – physically, financially, socially, spiritually?

Why we have the traditions that we do

Talking about big things and small things in a safe place was a good fit for our family. You have traditions of your own. They are meaningful and strengthen family ties. If you’re an introvert like me, some are gifts you give yourself. Watching old movies, and re-reading favorite novels may be your go-to. Quiet evenings in with your favorite critter and cuppa may make for your best Christmas.

Christmas traditions are points of connection with the ones we love. They support values we hold dear, and the generosity we hope to share. If you’re interested in exploring the “Why do we do that?” of everything from bells to baubles to Hanukkah, check out The History of Christmas. You’ll find fascinating tidbits of info there! For example, did you know,

“The world’s longest Christmas cracker measured 63.1m (207ft) long and 4m (13ft) in diameter and was made by the parents of children at Ley Hill School and Pre-School, Chesham, Buckinghamshire, UK on 20 December 2001. Now that would be one big bang!”

Create your own solitary, community, and family memories. Do the things that bring you peace of mind in what can be a stressful season. Most importantly, find some people you like to do them with.

May your Christmas traditions enrich your holiday. From each of our team here at DAC, we wish you and yours comfort and joy! Here’s to excellent health through this holiday season and on into the year ahead!

The post Christmas Traditions appeared first on Donate A Car.

It is becoming more and more prevalent to ensure vehicles are disposed of properly. There is a lot of controversy around carbon footprints. What is left behind when a vehicle is no longer drivable? Moreover, what about the carbon footprint left behind in the manufacturing of our cars and trucks?

Recycling is all about stewardship

The truth of the matter is we need to increase awareness. Let’s take whatever recycling action we can! For us, that means we assist in the proper removal and disposal methods available to us.

We believe Donate A Car Canada has a role and responsibility when a vehicle is submitted for donation. It is our best effort to work with agents across the country that have a similar mindset. We understand that it is a costly process for scrap yards/auto wreckers to engage in. Furthermore, not all agents are in a position to make the recycling transition as of yet.

In the words of the Automotive Recyclers of Canada, “Recyclers purchase end-of-life and accidented vehicles, and ensure that all vehicles are retired in an environmentally sound manner. They spend significant resources to build and maintain facilities specially designed to capture and store harmful materials, keeping them from contaminating soil and groundwater.”

When a vehicle is properly discarded, up to 85% of parts can be recycled for other uses! This typically means recycled steel manufacturing. Proper disposal of gasoline, oil products, or anti-freeze helps! These agents prevent waste from seeping into the ground. That eliminates contamination that can cause harm both to the environment and to the soil long term.

Who is behind the wheel on recycling?

One of our key agents has been instrumental in pursuing and generating change in the industry. As president of the Alberta Automotive Recyclers and Dismantlers Association he helps the cause. He is also on the Board with the Automotive Recyclers of Canada. As you will see in this interview, Steve Cox from Allwest Auto Parts in Edmonton, Alberta, is passionate about his work! See the difference he and his staff are making for our environment and future generations! We are proud to be affiliated with his organization. 

Please visit any one of these websites for more information on environmentally responsible processes for your vehicle:

Automotive Recyclers of Canada

Alberta Automotive Recylers & Dismantlers Association

Automotive Recyclers Association

Ready for a little four-wheeled recycling of your own?

You are less than 10 minutes away from your free tow! Go ahead! Donate your unused or unwanted car, truck, van, or SUV. The charity you love will benefit. Your driveway will be all the happier! And, on top of it all, we will work together to tend our earth.

Not quite ready to donate? Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter! There you will get an overall feel for how we care for each other and our charities. This is a caring community, here to serve you.

The post Keeping it Green in the Recycling Industry appeared first on Donate A Car.