Experiences VS. Material Things
We decided that our family would put less emphasis on things and put more time and energy into experiences and the true meaning of Christmas. Thanksgiving weekend, we informed our families that we would not be purchasing much for Christmas and that we really didn't want any material items for Christmas either. Our plan was to to spend time doing activities as a family instead.
This really forced us to think outside the box, which was a wonderful experience. We spent Christmas Eve ice skating and baking cookies with the girls. We almost didn't have time to open the presents under our tree. On Christmas Day after Mass, we packed up our minivan and drove to Pinedale and spent the weekend teaching the girls to downhill ski. Well, Dean taught them, while I worked on staying upright on my snowboard. We had a blast!
Honestly, I have to say that this was probably the best Christmas I can remember. Although, it probably wouldn't have taken much to beat last Christmas, since I spent almost all day in bed with a kidney infection my brain flooded with thoughts of a looming heart procedure.
The girls received minimal gifts from us and Santa all of which revolved around the theme of things to do..... ski helmets, ice skates, ski mittens and socks, and books. Our family also did an amazing job of sticking to the theme. Board games, crafts, and money to put towards experiences were all very thoughtful. 
We were also extremely creative in making many of the gifts we sent to family. The girls made necklaces for their teachers while I crocheted up a storm. I also put our pictures from the past year into a calendar for the girls grandparents. Making gifts takes time. This means that some gifts will be late, but I am learning that this is okay as well. It has been a wonderful experience teaching the girls to make things.What did we learn from this experience?
Christmas does not come out of a box. It comes from within. It isn't about having Christmas cards or presents packaged and mailed on time. It is about giving from the heart with great thoughtfulness and spending time with the people you love. I personally really enjoyed this Christmas, because I wasn't stressed out about buying things to fulfill some obligation. I had time to enjoy my girls while they are young. I am not sure how many more years they will continue to believe in Santa or our Elf on a Shelf, Holly. I needed to cherish every moment this year and that is exactly what I did. If the Christmas season makes you frantic, like it did me, I highly recommend making a change. Maybe make a BIG change. It was totally worth it to discover the true spirit of Christmas. You only get one life, experience it before it passes you by. Happy Holidays to all. May the New Year bless you with many happy experiences that make incredible memories. I am looking forward to 2016!
