Christmas is coming!

It's slowly starting to feel like Christmas!. The decorations and the tree are up. My nativities have been dusted off, and neatly displayed on my shelves. The stocking are hung, and Christmas Eve presents are wrapped and tucked away under the tree. And for once, my Christmas shopping is officially done with. I feel accomplished, and not so stressed about it all.

I found that it was easier to buy for the kids this year. They are so vocal about what they want that there were quite a few things to choose from. Of course, we can't buy them everything their little hearts desire, so I made a list of the top three things they kept asking over and over, and that's what I got. Books, toys, non toys items are usually what we get. And I am making a couple homemade presents for each of them this year. I find that I struggle more with buying stocking stuffer.

When the boys and I moved here. I brought all my bottles and cans recyclables from Lloyd and decided that all the money we will get from recycling throughout the year will go to the boys' Christmas Funds. By the time I went out and shopped for presents, the boys had $200 in their fund jar. Crazy right? The year is not over yet, and they still have half their money left. I decided to continue doing this year after year. When we go to the park, or for a walk, I like picking up bottles or cans laying around because it bugs me a bit, and honestly, it is free money just laying around, haha. I am not desperate but doing this keeps the parks clean, litter away, and free money in my pocket. Just saying!

I love the Christmas season! I love the spirit it brings, and the kindness and compassion found in people throughout the season. I wish I could feel this all year around. I don't forget to teach the true meaning of Christmas to my children, and this year by giving their toys monthly, I hope that they learn something important.