Monday, December 26, 2011

Happy Bday Jesus!

to minimize the commercialism of Christmas, the girls ask Santa for ONE toy wish.  in addition, they also get stocking stuffers, a few small wrapped gifts from us, presents fm both sets of grand parents, aunts and uncles...which is more than enough, esp since they are already drowning in toys (stuff) to begin with!  i want them to feel grateful for all that they have and not spoiled (always expecting, wanting more). 

and i like seeing them not just opening the presents but then also playing with their gifts (versus discarding them to the side).  warms my heart to see, they appreciate and like what they were given.  thus for us, Christmas morn is a sweet, slow, savory process: open present, play and repeat.

instead we try to emphasize the giving, charity and spiritual experiences of Christmas.  they help decorate the house & tree, send Christmas greeting cards, including to their sponsor brother and sister, bake cookies for their whole class (the only time of year momma bakes) and fill shoebox gifts for needy children
and of course, attend church and celebrate Jesus' birthday!!