I've been Walmarted, Targeted, Bath and Body Worked, and Bed, Bath and Beyonded today, and I want the madness to end! I was in the company of a dear friend, so it was bearable and we laughed all the way through each and every store, but I realized today that the fact that I have insulated myself against the "retailness" of Christmas so far this year was why I've been so darn happy lately! I purposely put off shopping to the last possible minute. I've never done that before, always preferring to start early and shop often. I do occasionally like the hustle and bustle, but it seems that lately it's accompanied by the grinchiest of folks. I had a man at Walmart nearly run me down to get out the front door ahead of me. I wanted to trip him a little...maybe not the most Yuletide thing to do. I know people are having tough financial times right now, and that can add additional strife at Christmas time. We have spoken to our children, who have so much more than is necessary, and told them that we were only going to be buying a few presents this year. Instead of being down or sad about it, they shrugged and said that it didn't matter, and that they were just excited to watch Christmas movies as a family, play games, and bake Christmas goodies. I guess we've done something right as parents of these two fabulous kiddos! Their response brought tears to my eyes, and my heart swelled with gladness that they understood what is really important this time of year and all year through! I want to share the letter that I found hanging in the "Letter to Santa" tube written by my daughter.
It reads:
Dear Santa,
For Christmas this year you should just concentrate on the families that don't have the things like we do such as a good place to live and food. My family will be fine with a little amount of presents this year because Christmas isn't just about receiving it is about giving. It is also about being with family and having fun together. So please Santa don't worry about us as much as the people without good shelter and food. Have a good Christmas!!! Love, Katie
P.S. How are the reindeer and elves? How is Mrs. Claus?
15 comments:
Thanks, Lori, for the sweet words! I love new readers and comments...I'm gonna "follow" you if you don't mind!
Merry Christmas!
your daughter gets it! Merry Christmas
That's the spirit--the Christmas spirit! Good for you, Katie!
such a lovely girl :) Merry Christmas
That makes my heart smile! What great kids you've got. How did the meditation go? Thanks for visiting my site too.
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas from ME!
You definately get a pat on the back for your daughter's letter. It's nice to know that as moms we can raise good kids.
{I probably would have wanted to trip the guy too}
What a beautiful letter, so thoughtful and kind. I hope my boys turn out just as thoughtful.
As for the exchange student, peach is so not the word I'd use ... LOL. I thought this would be a wonderful experience to show the kids how to share and have a experience they will have for a lifetime. Sad to say that out of the other host families we seem to be the one who has the child that isn't really the most appreciative. Why not I didn't have enough going on in my life :).
What a wonderful daughter you have! I'm so happy ya'll are setting such a wonderful example! I'm filled with such cheer!
OMG we are so on the same wavelength. I love that movie, yup I was very impressed this year.
Aww what a sweet girl you have! This is so touching, thanks for sharing and give her a big hug :)
What a truly wonderful gift for mom. Good Job!!!
Have a blessed New Year!!
That is such a sweet letter. You're definitely doing something right. :)
so true. i've felt the same way this year. and what a smart and sweet little lady miss Katie is! Love you guys!
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