Quote

"Rings and jewels are not gifts, but apologies of gifts. The only true gift is a portion of thyself."

Ralph Waldo Emerson

This quote was used in our Relief Society lesson on Sunday. It really struck me and I have pondered on it for the last day. Every single year for the past few years I have been conflicted over buying Christmas presents. It's a struggle between wanting to give my family nice gifts, but not wanting to be frivolous either. Freaking out about spending too much money, or worrying about buying things just to buy things. I want gifts to be meaningful, but lets face it, it's really fun to give (and get) cool stuff. This year I have worked on gathering Christmas presents throughout the year, so I'm not frantically buying things on a whim the weeks prior to Christmas. This year I feel better about the gifts. Maybe because I've prepared ahead. I have also decided to try and not worry about the commercialism so much, but just enjoy giving presents that will hopefully make them smile.

So, now that just about all of my shopping is done-I want to take that quote to heart. I hope that I can find a way to give a portion of myself to my family this year.

I have some fun memories of the Holidays when I was growing up, but there are also some not so fun memories. My goal is to make the Holidays as happy and joyous as possible for my children and I think that may at times definitely mean giving a portion of myself...in many different ways.

This year we are trying to teach Katelyn more about why we celebrate Christmas and why we give presents, as opposed to getting presents. It's tough when you are only 4, but she is a very compassionate person, so I know she will get it.

(my beautiful girl-all dressed up to see Santa on Saturday)

We did sit down and write a letter to Santa today. Her list was short and sweet.


"Dear Santa, HI! I want a pillow pet and jewelry, barbie set, Christmas book, tree (for her room). Love, Katelyn"