Most would agree that Christmas has materialized into "I wants" and the newest technology. Well I would agree, but there has to be a happy medium out there. I mean I would like to show my children how to give and receive graciously. I want them to make a list for Santa, enjoy the spirit of elf's and the magical world of the north pole. I also want him to understand the true meaning of Christmas, and why we celebrate Jesus Birth. Can I really have both? I grew up doing all these things, but in today's world can I raise my children to understand both sides of the spectrum? Without destroying that magical belief that there is a Santa, and the pure innocence of nativity?
As a new mom I am feeling a little pressure to start traditions with our family. Ones that can carry though the years, and ones that my children will enjoy many years from now. I love the elf on the shelf idea, but really what does a bad elf teach children? No offense I know several of you are doing it, but I just don't think its for me. We used to do "operation shoe box" growing up, but I feel the need to do more physical giving of my time and energy. I also know my husband won't get into a tradition until Hunter is older and able to understand what we are doing... which is reasonable. I am feeling the need and want to start something now, and I guess I just don't know where to start.
I know this post is random, but its what my brain is stuck on... Any suggestions?
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| Here is our tree this year! |
Our family tradition is for Chloe to open a box on Christmas eve that has her pj's in it, a Christmas book and a new ornament for the tree. The ornaments will go with her when she gets her own house some day.
ReplyDeleteI can imagine that wanting to start long traditions would be a little daunting! I'm sure you have wonderful ideas yourself and I'm not remembering the shoe box idea but I'm sure it was a really good one.
ReplyDeleteI've seen things floating around Pinterest that are scripture advent calendars, which I think is a good idea because it combines both the meaning of Christmas along with still something "new" and "exciting" each day. Another thing I think would be rewarding and liven the spirit of giving would be for Hunter to chose a gently-used toy(s) from his own toys (prior Christmas toys or a toy accumulated throughout the year) to donate to a shelter or Salvation Army or to even purchase a toy together as a family that he would then give to a child in need. I realize that these are structured for older children, but maybe something as simple as building a gingerbread house (in the style of a nativity scene using toys rather than building those animals and people!) could be something fun to do with him now - although I could see him just wanting to smash it ;)
LOVE the star at the top of your tree!!!