With the smell of turkey still lingering, my busy mind went to work on the next big thing. Christmas. I pulled out my supplies and went to work on a special present for my little girl, a tutu. Handmade with love by Santa's number one elf {her mama}. As my hands went to work, my mind went over the lists in my head of what each child will be receiving this year, as well as other relatives. And of course, I had the "is it enough" thought.
I always get that thought.
I firmly believe that handmade gifts are the best. And although I'm not terribly crafty, in years past I've done my best to include handmade gifts whenever possible. But I always supplement because for whatever reason, I never think it's enough to give something without a price tag.
Last December I read an article in Wonder Time magazine {now out of print, I believe... } about a family who made the decision to only give thoughtful gifts made with their hands and hearts. Coupon books, hand written letters to one another, small crafts, you get the idea. It struck me so deeply that all year we've been giving hand made gifts for birthday presents. And I had the best intentions for Christmas. I have made quilts, and those no sew fleece blankets in the past. But because of lack of energy, I settled, though I am very proud to say that most of the gifts we've chosen to give have been handmade, just not by me. They're bought from small businesses that I believe in, or the proceeds of gifts go to help someone in need. We do have several projects lined up for myself and the kids, which should be fun and bring a few smiles to those opening them.
But I feel like this is just the beginning. From here on out, I am not going to ask myself if we're giving enough to people who do not need anything. That sounds a little harsh, but it's not meant to be. I love gifts as much as the next person, but I would much rather receive a gift from the heart that doesn't cost a cent, than an expensive gift when I do not need anything.
The Christmas season is one of my most favorite times of the year. The spirit of it. The decorations, carols, cookies, wonder, and joy that comes with the month of December make it irresistible. I'm watching Fynn's amazement as he notices the holiday decorations as we drive through town, and realizing that his wonder right now has nothing to do with presents. And we can foster that wonder and hopefully steer away from the commercialism that has taken over so much of the season. Back to giving, and giving to those who are actually in need.
We are a family, not unlike many others, that is not wealthy in the monetary sense. We live on a tight budget, count the days until the next paycheck at times, but we always have food on the table. We want for very little. We do not need anything, as we have so much compared to so many others. When we have a few extra dollars it goes towards those who need it more. And recently, that's been often. Five dollars here and there can help. Or a dinner. I like to cook dinners to give to friends who need a break - in many different circumstances.
This year, I have hope that we can turn around and change for the better when it comes to the holiday season. It's been on my mind quite a bit, and what gives me extra hope is knowing others think about it, and act, as well. Some of my favorite bloggers have come together and are working on giving to the needy, in the spirit of what Christmas is actually about. Check them out over at Christmas Change, and be inspired. I have. I've been moved to tears by posts, and humbled beyond anything I could imagine.
From now on I'll be asking myself if we're giving enough to those in need. And if the gifts we give our family are thoughtful, meaningful, and somehow made by {our own when possible} two hands and given with our hearts. Don't get me wrong, there will be a few store bought gifts under our tree. I can't whip up a tricycle or the like without a little help. But you'd better believe they'll be eco friendly options when available, if not recycled and refurbished if possible. But that's another post altogether... about moderation, teaching gratitude, about loving what you have.
But for now, if you'll excuse me, I have a tutu to fluff with love.