And the one sweetest thing (please don't let this be bragging..) this year? All the hand-wrapped presents with handwritten tags from my children. I began by letting the kids wrap things for each other, then I have left out the wrapping paper, scissors, tape, and tags on my bedroom floor (yes..all month.). What I've learned is that they go work in their rooms, then emerge, and wrap.
There are all sorts of beautiful packages under our tree. And I love it. They weren't purchased or ordered. They were dreamed into existence. They have bought a few things for a quarter or a dollar here or there, or used whatever savings they had. But really, like Clay made mustaches for Mary Claire (it's a big fad here, it'll probably be over next month, ha!)...I can't wait till she sees them! They are made from some leftover white furry fabric I had that he was using to make Carter a blanket. They will all be so excited. They are pretty good to appreciate time and effort.
I want them to know that I value that they want to give to e-v-e-r-y-one, that they want to read to their brother, that they respect people's privacy, that they love to play on the trampoline together, that they can make up their own games and make their own *forts* outside, and that they want to sit with Santa for their little brothers even when they feel too big. And I like that they still tell me they believe in Santa, even when they know he has lots of helpers. Wink, wink. Oh, kids are a mixed bunch, incredibly imperfect, but aren't we? At least I can be thankful for the good I can find. : )
We took the kids one night when Clay was camping, and Mary Claire didn't want to sit on Santa's lap. (He's the best Santa by the way.) |
Santa tries to look over his glasses and look jolly. He was super sweet. I really liked the couch for the bigger kids. : ) |
I hope you are blessed with precious packages and sweet little people. Merry Christmas. Let us celebrate baby Jesus' birthday with joy and honor Him with our hearts and words. Hugs!