Christmas 2012

There is something enchanting about children, especially around the holidays. They have this innate belief in a figure that comes down the chimney, that elves can make toys, and that wishing on a star can come true. They've yet to become jaded by the reality of the world which is refreshing to adults.

 

 

This year the boys did the usual traditions. We visited Santa, where they gave their wish list. The yearly picture was taken before we all scampered back to the car.

 

Plenty of time and thought was put into choosing gifts for the children. Each child's strengths (educational toys), to things they adore (likes), and even taking into consideration how each one is advanced... when making a choice of what will go under the tree.

 

 

We had some diversity added to our home. The school introduced our kindergartener to "Christmas Around the World" (Germany, Italy, China, etc). Which meant we had to go beyond what we now perceive as a narrow scope... we told them about our traditions, Jewish, and Kwanzaa. I am grateful he learn a bit past what we've already told him about, which will give him a greater respect towards others as an adult.

 

This season, my youngest wanted a dreidel. I went as far as to track down a synagogue because normal shops don't sell them for some reason. He wanted one, and he adores the song. Even the pet shops have them in the dog sections, plushy dreidels that sing the song. But I can't buy him a "dog toy". Still need one... he wants a metal one.

 

This year we focused on "giving" to others. We took small things we were given, re-gifted them to those we know would love them (See's candy, nut array, and gift cards). This way the spirit of the season was continuously passed to the next person. We also found various ways to give back, donated to charities, and taught the kids the real "reason for the season". Unfortunately, this is the only time most think about those in need. And the only time lower wage earners make good tips. We took some of our tips and invested them back into others... ~*Karma*~

 

~*MERRY CHRISTMAS*~... and may everyone's New Year be blessed!!! We'll be doing black-eyed peas to hopefully reign in the good fortune for our family!