I contributed recently on ABFOL about how to keep your holidays happy and organized. In the post I touched on how we do gifts for our kids each Christmas. It was more of an overview so I wanted to elaborate more on the specifics and details. I think it is a great strategy that helps to keep things simple. (Which is always my goal.)
About five years ago, a friend shared with me about an idea that their family had adopted. After hearing the details, I jumped on board. The idea is to follow the theme of the Three Wise Men and to give three gifts to each child that represent three specific meanings. The children receive one item they want, one family gift – (gift of time), and one item they need. It has been a game changer I tell ya!
It has been so helpful as we plan and shop for their gifts. It really is a simple solution that helps us to keep the focus on the reason for the season. We want to give gifts, but we want to remember why we are giving gifts in the first place.
Three Gifts – based on the gifts the Three Wise Men brought to baby Jesus.
Gold: symbolize something of value. Something you really want. Easy enough. 🙂
Frankincense: symbolizes something spiritual. Something that helps you grow in your spiritual walk. We have used our “Family Gift” in this category as a way to foster our family time and quality time together. Building in memories and opportunities for important conversations.
Myrrh: symbolizes something for the body. Something you need. This could be clothing, perfume, shoes…
*These are the general guidelines you could of course take it many different directions. The goal after all is simplicity.
Now…I do also keep one other tradition. Each year the kids also get to open a new pair of pajamas on Christmas Eve. I started this tradition when they were babies and have kept it going. I try to match as much as possible too, because that’s just what I like to do.
What is one thing YOU really want this year?
Linked with A Bowl Full of Lemons.
