Preparing for Christmas

Wow!  Apparently we've been a bit busy since Thanksgiving!  One could argue that preparing for such a special holiday takes a lot of time, thoughtfulness and self-reflection. I wish I could say that is why we have been too busy to write.  I feel as though this year we have done a better job at remembering the real reason for this season and I hope to continue to be more intentional about this. 

Ben has definitely realized what Christmas is supposed to be about this year.  Much of this is due to being in Sunday school and a very Christian-based preschool a few days a week. They do an awesome job of bringing Jesus to the center of all things and because of this, Ben and I have had some great conversations . . . some that not many 4-year olds would be prepared for! What a blessing to have my little man know all about God and Jesus and how much we are loved by our Heavenly Father!

Sunday School program

And while Christmas is not all about the tree, presents and Santa, it sure is fun to see the excitement in Cooper's eyes anytime our tree lights turn on and the room is aglow with those tiny white lights!  This year will be so much fun with him and I'm so blessed to get to see the magic of Christmastime unfold through his eyes!



Helping Mom make sugar cookies!

And while last year we did not have our "White Christmas" it is looking like the snow that is here is here to stay for awhile. . . especially with our single-digit temperatures for the next few days! We were able to get out in it last week before the wind chill dropped too much!

Getting ready to gang up on Mom and throw some snowballs

We also realize that the "controversy" of Santa is one that many parents deal with.  To us, Santa is the physical reminder of all the magic of Christmas.  Waiting in line to see Santa helps build the fun anticipation that many of us remember as children and I don't think I am any worse for the wear!  Leaving Christmas cookies and then racing down the next morning to see if they've been consumed is just a fun tradition (and a good way for Mom and Dad to have some guilt-free goodies!)

Most of all, Santa is there to help us remember that it is okay to be young and believe in things that we don't always see.  Sounds a little familiar eh?!  Jesus IS the real reason for the season and even though we can't see him, that doesn't mean we don't believe!!! And while the magic of Santa Claus will one day be gone, our Saviour is always with us; and that is one thing we hope our children do not leave behind!



MERRY CHRISTMAS from the Bartletts