Happy December

"Mommy, I learned about the baby Jesus today", my 3 year old daughter says proudly upon returning from preschool. "Yeah, they didn't have room for him so they made him stay on the farm". After the initial shock and feeling like my daughter had just told me where babies come from, I had a good laugh. The fact of the matter is my children don't know the origin of Christmas. Some of you may agree and I'm sure many of you disagree, however the bottom line is this : They know the MEANING of the holiday season. Well, at least Autumn does, and Jude will in time. They know the warm feelings that come with decorating the house when it's cold and uncomfortable outside. They know the excitement of Santa and our new favorite, the elf on the shelf. Most importantly they know that it is a time for giving to others and showing your love. This year we went through all the toys and made donations before Christmas and I think that will be a tradition every year. After hearing "I want, I want, I'm gonna get, I need to have" several times I finally sat Autumn down and had a long talk with her about gifts at Christmas time. She understood quickly and can tell you now that Christmas is about giving. We may not be a religious family but I know I am very drawn to tradition, and would never deny our children those joys. Our tree is up, Our stockings are hung and were decorated with close friends. Presents are stacked in my closet and we are baking cookies on Wednesday. I've never been more excited about Christmas than I am this year and I have to thank my little monsters for that. While I was explaining the meaning of Christmas and reliving traditions while making new ones my kids didn't even realize that they were teaching me a whole new meaning to it as well. So no matter what you celebrate or how you celebrate it, Happy togetherness, Happy cookie eating, Joyful Giving and Merry Everything! Stay warm, stay Hopeful, and love each other....because in a week we'll all be back to selfish miserable grumps again LOL.