This year we have adopted two new family traditions. One of our newest traditions was adopted from my husbands family – candy cane ornaments. It’s a simple tradition but a great opportunity for the little ones to help decorate the tree.
Ellis has thoroughly enjoyed decorating the tree this year. She also loves the idea of taking the decorations back off the tree – especially, the candy canes. We have no candy canes on the lower half of our tree because she has popped them, peeled the plastic, and enjoyed a snack in hiding — savage one year old.
The second tradition we’ve decided to implement – three gifts for each child in our home.
As parents, we knew we wanted to celebrate Christmas, but did not want our little ones consumed with the
On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense,
and myrrh. Matthew 2:11 NIV
This concept was a way for us to reinforce the true meaning of Christmas (the greatest gift being eternal life through Salvation) and a way to continuously share the story of Jesus’ birth. Three Wisemen each brought Jesus a meaningful gift and if three is enough for Jesus it is more than enough for you – amen – Amen!
Scripture illustrates that the gold, frankincense, and myrrh were not only financial resources for the family but also gifts of purpose. These gifts were symbols of Christ’s life on this earth. Gold a gift royalty fit for a king. Frankincense a gift for deity and acknowledgment that Jesus was indeed the son of God. And, myrrh a spice used to anoint one’s body for burial, foreshadowing the death and resurrection of our savior. Gifts of purpose and value —and not just stuff.
Together we thought about Ellis’ interest and needs and purchased three gifts for her. At her age she enjoys entertainment – her number one ask on car rides, “Phone, Elmo” – so a meaningful gift for her was an Amazon Fire 7 HD Kids Edition. She also has an interest in cleaning and we want to help cultivate that or better yet help her to enjoy being a neat freak like mommy. So instead of telling her no she can’t help with chores, we bought her a playset that allows her to clean — vacuum. MOM WIN!
What are some traditions you’re implementing this year? How are you teaching your little ones the true meaning of Christmas? What are some of your personal convictions when it comes to Christmas? I’d love to know.
XO, Carm W.
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