Christmas complaints

Let me start by saying that I absolutely love Christmas! So what's with the title, you ask? Although I really enjoy the holiday season, there are a few things that get under my skin.

First of all, what is with the holiday decorations, music, and even those people standing out in front of the mall with their little bells--all before Thanksgiving? Can't we enjoy Thanksgiving instead of just skipping right into Christmas? I think we should actually take the time to focus on the things that we are thankful for instead of rushing into the hustle and bustle of gift-giving and receiving.

Second of all, there is the pressure I feel to buy everyone and their brother a gift. How meaningful can this be? Shouldn't a gift be from the heart? Shouldn't I be out and see something and say, "Ah-ha, wouldn't so-in-so love to have this? It would mean so much to them...it would match perfectly with their set of..., this looks just like her..., I know he mentioned wanting one of these..."ect.etc. It takes the fun and sincerity out of it when you are staring at your list and you are down to that difficult in-law or aunt with nothing by their name. I haven't a clue how to remedy this. (or maybe I do, but just haven't the nerve to do it yet) Oh, and gift certificates are the worst. That is just like swapping money. No thoughtfulness involved in that one.

Third of all, there are those damn retailers. They just keep on offering more and more cute things, that I just have to have, every year. OK, so maybe this one is my fault.

Now, since I am trying very hard to be a more positive/thankful person, I will list some of my favorite things about the holidays:
Christmas cards--Yes I love sending and receiving them!
Christmas parties and family get-togethers
Christmas goodies--Cakes, cookies, and candy
Gift giving--I love to see someone's face light up when they open something they really like
A nice fire in the fireplace
Decorating Christmas trees
Christmas music--by Christmas day my kids are begging me to make it stop
Hearing my children read the Christmas story aloud
Christmas lights
Christmas movies--especially Miracle on 34th Street
No school!
Traveling to the mountains

I hope you are geared up for the Holiday Season! Remember Jesus!