'Tis The Season

Advent.  One of my favorite times of year.  And, other than summer vacation, the best time to build memories with my family.  We adopted the attitude of "Advent Conspiracy" many years ago (back in 2007).  The idea is simple: spend less, give me.  Not just monetary giving, but relational giving.  And showing your kids, and the world, that Christmas isn't about consumerism.

I've shared before that we only give our children 3 small gifts and some practical stocking stuffers (toothbrush, toothpaste, crayons, markers, lip balm, etc.) at Christmas.  In addition, we buy or make inexpensive gifts only for the immediate members of our family (our parents, siblings, nephews).  We also do a lot of baking for neighbors and friends.  Recently, we've decided that we want to share a lot of meals with people during this season, so we have friends over frequently for dinner and games (or do meal drop offs for those friends who are too busy).  We have movie nights and Christmas carol get togethers.  The past few years, we even caroled at an Alzheimer's home in Portland.  I am really going to miss that tradition this year, but hoping we can find some folks to start it up again next year (we're still trying to find a niche within a church home).  We incorporate additional Scripture readings into our daily Bible times (which always include a Psalm and a chapter or two from whatever book we're reading through--currently, it's Acts)--ones that are about Christ's birth.

We're in the thick of advent now.  12 days behind us, 12 days ahead of us.  We've prayed together, written and mailed letters to people, baked, made crafts, delivered treats/meals, played games, sang songs, watched Christmas classics, and have spent time with friends.  What's to come is: serving together in the community, donating clothes and toys to local shelters/hospitals, spending more time with family and friends, playing more games, watching more Christmas classics, and more prayer and worship for our King.  We're looking forward to building lasting memories; gifts that will last longer than any of those we'd buy at the store.