Oh Christmas. I love it so much. But every year at this time, I have to recommit to simplifying it, because as you know, it can quickly get out of control…and then instead of celebrating Christmas, we merely try to get through it.
So in the interest of doing more than just getting through it, here are five of my favorite tips for keeping Christmas simple:
- DO put up a Christmas tree. Trees make everything instantly Christmasy.
DON’T put up more than one tree. It just takes extra time and doesn’t feel any more Christmasy. If you have an extra tree lurking in your storage room, donate it!
- DO buy gifts for those you love.
DON’T buy more than a few gifts per person. Instead, decide on giving each other fewer gifts this year, pool your extra money and do a Sub for Santa. And by all means, involve your kids in every step of the Sub for Santa – they will never forget it.
(Over the years, I’ve had a lot of people send me stories of their most memorable Christmas. Not one has ever said it was the year they got the most presents. Just sayin’.)
- DO make things special for your children. Read Christmas stories, sing songs, bake cookies & deliver gifts together.
DON’T make it about Santa Claus. (Warning: soapbox issue here.) I’ve never understood why we celebrate the birth of our Savior, who lives and loves us, and who gives us every good thing we have, by focusing on a fictional character who doesn’t exist and doesn’t give us anything at all. In what world does that make sense? (Okay I’m finished.)
- DO give your neighbors an extra cheery Merry Christmas greeting. Better yet, go visit them.
DON’T feel obligated to give neighbor gifts. In fact, this year, be the neighbor who suggests that everyone in the neighborhood finally give that tradition up in favor of donating to a worthy cause.
- DO center your Christmas on Christ, through simple acts of kindness and togetherness.
DON’T try to do too much. Over-programming Christmas, even if it’s with Christ-centered activities, is still over-programming.
Comment your favorite tip for simplifying Christmas, and I'll send you a free copy of "The Star Still Shines" sheet music.
*In all you do and don’t do, strive for a few simple and silent nights, where you can feel the wondering awe of the birth of the Savior, and be thankful for all He has given you.
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