The big day is almost here! I feel surprisingly laid back this year, there’s nothing that I’m stressing about needing to get done, or fit in, or prepare! I’m so used to feeling rushed right now, it’s almost anticlimactic to be able to relax, lol!
Anyway. Have you guys seen those posts about doing a super extra special night in December where you surprise your kids when they get into bed with golden tickets telling them to grab their slippers and get in the car (where you’ve already placed hot chocolate and snacks, because you’re awesome, and your kids never spill drinks in the car), and then you go look at Christmas lights?
I decided to do that last week, with a few changes. I didn’t print out tickets. Or make snacks. Oh, and my girls don’t have slippers, but whatever. Here’s what happened. The girls put on their pajamas and brushed their teeth, and then I said, “Time to go to the van! We’re looking at Christmas lights!”
And do you know what? They were ECSTATIC!
Like, seriously, jumping for joy, and telling me over and over how it was the most amazing, awesome, wonderful surprise and this was basically the best thing ever. I’ve obviously been keeping the bar low. 😉
One of the houses in particular was absolutely enchanting. The street wasn’t busy, so we parked across from the house for a bit and Artist and Boo climbed into my lap and we cuddled and admired the lights. It was wonderful! And it changed my perspective.
I read something awhile ago. I’m pretty sure it was on Jen Hatmaker’s blog, but I think maybe she was actually quoting someone else. (Do you guys know? Help me out here.)
The post was talking about decorating, and said, “It doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful.” I LOVE that!
With the plethora of ideas on Pinterest for crafts, activities, and new traditions with which to fill your December, it’s easy to get carried away. To think you have to DO a bunch of stuff if you want your kids to have a good Christmas.
You guys…please hear me…that’s just not true. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again.
Do what works for you.
If you really enjoy spending a lot of time preparing elaborate things for your kids. Do it. Have a blast!
But if you don’t, please don’t waste a single second feeling guilty.
Here’s what my kids taught me last week:
It doesn’t have to be elaborate to be special.
It doesn’t have to be big to be memorable.
It doesn’t have to be extravagant to be magical.
They also taught me that coffee is a Mom’s best friend, but that’s not really relevant here. 😉
Merry Christmas, you guys! I hope you have a wonderful time celebrating the birth of Jesus…whatever that looks like for you!