So, we have all our shopping done and still NO Christmas tree. There are a few reasons why... and not because we don't want one, because we do. First, we have a 13 month old who loves all things shiny! Second, my hubby wants a real tree and this costs money and added time having to go, cut it, and bring it home.Thirdly, my house is TRASHED! Where I want to put a tree, out of the way of little curious fingers, is the dining room, in the corner. But, I can't seem to get around to actually cleaning the area and placing the tree.
So, I have come to this conclusion: Since we stay at my in-laws on Christmas Eve and wake up to do Christmas there and since we don't give our kids their gifts until New Years Eve and Day, that we don't need a tree this year. I will work harder to get a tree up next year, but this year I refuse to stress about it.
So, why do we wait until New Years Eve and Day to give our children their gifts? Well, because we want to do our best to stress the importance of Christ at this wonderful time of the year. They also get gifts from everyone else on Christmas, they would explode with gifts if we gave them their gifts from us as well. We also make it a point to remind them that Santa Claus is a great story but that Santa isn't real. Now, I know some of you are thinking that we are horrible for not letting our children have an imagination, but that is not true. We watch all the fun movies like Santa's Coming To Town and Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer (actually we own that one and it is watch all year round, driving me crazy!). We want the kids to know what Christmas really means, to us as Christians, and also the importance of giving. We encourage them to purchase gifts for others. We participate in Operation Christmas Child every year. This teaches the kids how to be selfless and not selfish.
I pray that you have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Remember that this time of year is all about gathering with family and friends and sharing with each other.
Luke 2:8-12
8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
Blessings!
~Lil*Mama~
