Last Christmas

Last Christmas...
I finished my holiday shopping by Halloween.
I wrapped all of the presents by Thanksgiving
The Christmas tree went up the day after Thanksgiving
375 Christmas cards were mailed out by December 1st
17 presents were mailed by December 1st.

Last Christmas...
We had a Christmas party for over 100 people
We had 4 families join us for Christmas Eve dinner


Last Christmas...
The tree was overflowing with gifts.
It took 7 lawn trash bags to throw out the paper, bows, and packaging
The children got tired opening presents and so they opened some the next day.

Last Christmas was exhausting.

This Christmas
It won't be about the decorations, wrapping or presents.
I am buying much fewer presents, so I don't need to shop earlier.
Our holiday cards will go out later.
We are not hosting any parties or dinners.
We are asking friends and family to give to charity and not us.
We are encouraging the exchange of handmade or sentimental gifts.

This Christmas
We are giving our time
We are giving our talents
We are giving our time

This Christmas
I will not spend hours away from my family
preparing for minutes of perfection

I will be with my family.
I will be with my friends.
My present this year will be my presence.

My mind will not wander to my to do list.
I will not abruptly end conversations so that I can wrap, or shop, or wrap some more.

I will not busy myself with the business of the season
I will instead slow down and take its meaning.

I will teach my children the true meaning of Christmas.
I will give them an opportunity to give.
I will give them an opportunity to serve.
I will give them an opportunity to experience a Christmas that cannot be bought.

And I have no doubt it will be the best Christmas ever!