Feeling a little lost in the hubbub of modern Christmas?

I find my ideas about the season are far more idealistic than the bustle I see (and feel…when elbowed by fellow shoppers on my way to check-out!) My husband and I are expecting our first little one, and have spent a lot of time in conversation of what our hopes are for the future Christmas Seasons in the life of our young family. We hope for the simplicity, warmth and love that we remember from the Christmas’ of our youth…before Santa’s elves built ipods, wii fits and designer clothing. Back when the gifts given were in similitude of those first gifts of Christmas given to the Christ child.

There are two ideas that we have thought of to guide us in our pursuit:

#1. Christmas is a birthday…Birthday’s are special.

Every child has one special day that is all his/her own. A birthday! Usually this day falls on a random, run-of-the-mill date that is made special by the coming of the child into the world. So, celebrate! Instead of Christ’s birthday being a time of great anticipation of grandeur for our children, we’d like them to feel those hopes (and even some expectation) on their OWN birthday! The same year’s salary goes to pay for birthdays and Christmas, so we’ll just divide it differently than some families whose birthday celebrations and gifts pale in comparison to the showering of STUFF at Christmas. Maybe our children will learn that just as their special day is a time to celebrate their lives-Christmas is indeed a time to celebrate Christ’s life…and any gifts given and received are in memory of Him.

#2. Christmas is a time for family-the gifts should bring us together.

Some of our favorite Christmas memories are the years that family was joined to receive a gift of time. One year my parents gave each child a piece of a go-kart! I unwrapped a shiny black tire, my little brother an fluorescent orange flag, a sister the steel steering wheel and so forth. We were all so excited about the new (though looking back slightly dangerous!!) toy that offered us endless hours of hilarious togetherness. Another year, we all woke up Christmas morning and boarded a plane to Mexico. No presents to unwrap…just days to unwind together under the beating sun. Last year, my in-laws gave my husband and myself each a pair of snowshoes. We spent the rest of the winter tromping around together through the Utah mountains. As we look forward to the future, we can envision Christmas mornings that turn into days, weeks and years of family recreation, adventure and memories.