Simple Traditions: The Gifts & The Stockings

Continuing a conversation about traditions.  The gifts I give. It's not the amount but rather spirit and the love.  Creating special moments.

When our boys were little we were extremely limited on income but I found creative ways to make Christmas fun for little boys as well as fulfill the practical.   Taking those packages of socks, I wrapped each pair individually.  

Each boy got a book and something educational as well as something fun. I would add notes in the pages of the book or find a unique way to wrap the toys. Each packet of clay or little toy was wrapped in their special paper.

I still buy the socks and underwear and of course a book and other things practical.   A new razor or trimmer and then something just for fun.  Usually a movie and a game...something they can do together. 

We open the family gifts after going to the Candlelight Service and reading the Christmas story.  If we have presents to deliver then we do that in the dark pretending to be Santa!

My Mother-in-Law always wrapped presents using individualized paper so each one of us had our own paper.  This small touch meant the world to me so I've incorporated this tradition into mine.  The boys have loved it!

My Mom made felt boots with our initials on each one within the family cattle brand.  As we got married and had children, she adding a stocking for each husband and child.  It is fun to see the room surrounded by boots!  

I've not gone this route but I still fill the stockings and feed the reindeer on Christmas Eve and leave a special gift for Santa.  The boys still run up to see and then we have Cinnamon Rolls and Hot Drinks.

Just an encouragement for this year that has been difficult for many.  It is not the gifts or the amount of money spent...it is treating our family like the royalty and special people that they are.   Simple cooking and smells.  Clean house.   Phone calls.  Hand written letters. A back-rub or a game as a family.  Time and touch can be the best gifts of all!!!