Preparations

This week I've started putting my lists together as to what needs done! I've pared down those who we will buy for. My dh's family has decided to draw names these last few years! That has been a blessing ~ it really takes away from that attitude of "how much am I going to get". We have also explained to the children that their gifts will be pretty minimal, that our focus this year is to give more to others who are not as fortunate. I am working hard at trying to reduce our debt so I am working on a budget, hoping to complete it soon! And then to start purchasing gifts so there is no mad rush, spend more than I planned to moments as Christmas day draws near.

This year I really am striving to get our family's focus back on Christ in Christmas. And am praying that the Lord will help me in that area!

Christmas Countdown

It's hard to believe that mid-October is here! I feel like I'm already so behind in Christmas preparations. Not sure when we will head North, nothing done for our family picture card that I REALLY want to get done and sent out this year! And it seems like weekends are all booked up!

I don't like the materialism that Christmas has become -- this year it is my goal to stay away from that!! But I do love to celebrate Christmas! I love to set up our nativity set and remember that the reason for Christmas is that God sent His Son. I love to set up our tree and be reminded of His everlasting love, and His sacrifice on the cross. I love to sing Christmas carols, I love the scent of Christmas, I love the "feel" of Christmas -- that cozy peaceful quiet....

Most of all I love to make memories...with Dad in the early last stages of Alzheimer's I'm finding that making memories is so important!! Lots of pictures and laughter and time together.....my heart has been so grieved these last couple of years--this year we, I, will celebrate Christmas with a very thankful heart for all that the Lord has blessed me with.