When winter arrives in our little corner of the world, it seems as though the energy changes. My husband gets an extra pep in his step as he relives his fondest childhood memories of playing in the snow, my children exuberantly rush to transform into big marshmallow puffs of layers and the visual beauty of the world outside of our window becomes breathtaking.
We may not have a white Christmas this year and that is OK because I know how hard it can be for families who need to travel over the holidays. However, we have had a taste of a white winter and it sure has brought about a little extra Christmas spirit for me!
Christmas Tree Memories
As my children were decorating our tree recently, I felt as though I needed to really embrace this tradition and create a meaningful memory for not only my kids, but myself. One of my fears about parenting is missing opportunities that could potentially make a lasting mark on my children's lives forever. When my little boys are 24 and 25 years old, it is my dream for them to tell me they had an amazing childhood filled with too many wonderful memories to count.
So, instead of rushing, I'm savoring. Instead of over-committing outside of my home, I'm over-committing inside where my treasures reside. To me, having a family unit that is in tune, in love and engaged is the ultimate goal each and every day.
I looked at each ornament that was carefully chosen by one of my boys from the bin and explained the story behind it.
When my husband's grandmother passed away, all of her turtle ornaments were divided among the family members. A few of them adorn our tree.
My grandmother gifts us adorable ornaments that she chooses with care and thought. She is such a special lady in my life and it meant a lot to be able to share this with my sons.
This photo cube ornament was given to us by a friend and I so dearly treasure it! The rocking horse that my boys are on was my rocking horse when I was a toddler. Maybe one day, they will give it to their own children to use.
I spy.. ME! This ornament is so special to me because this was the year I taught 1st grade. This ornament was given to me by one of the parents of my class that year. Being a teacher for one year is what solidified for me what my dream was: to be a stay at home mommy. I did not have children yet and did not have immediate plans to do so. However, when I got to know my little angels, I realized with such clarity that I could not wait to become a mother and have some little angels of my own.
Christmas wouldn't be Christmas at all without Christ. We keep a cross on our tree because we believe in celebrating Jesus' birth, his life and the gift He has given us through His death upon the cross.
I think every married couple has a version of this ornament! It has survived almost 14 years with us and as long as we proceed with care, it has at least another 50 to go.
Do you have a favorite ornament that carries a special meaning? I would love to hear what that is in the comments below. Maybe you want to share a Christmas tradition that you hold dear to your heart as well!
I truly hope and pray that everyone who is reading this right now has a beautiful Christmas, filled with love, family and the joy in giving. If anyone is looking for me, I will be outside in the snow with my kids, pouring into their lives and making precious memories they will always have to hold onto.
"You'll never regret too much time spent with your children. You'll only regret too little." - my mom
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