I have to admit, I don't always enjoy the Christmas season. I get too busy and it just passes by without me taking the time to really find the joy in it. This year is especially tough for me because I miss my son and my brother - it is my first year without them here for the holidays. I am looking forward to talking to Thane on the phone though as he gets to call home on Christmas day. That will be the best part of the day for me!
I made a couple of Christmas quotes to remind me of what the season is all about:
There are things I love about the holiday season. I love smelling a fresh Christmas tree every morning when I get up. I love the Christmas songs that Tom has playing in our house all season long. I love how we sit in the living room with the tree working together while the girls are at school. I love that it is a season of giving and many of us are trying to be nicer to each other and serve more. I love the decorations! I would say I love all the goodies, but I am going without those this year on my quest to delete sugar from my diet!
But on the other hand, I have never liked the commercialism surrounding Christmas. I don't like the whole gift purchasing part - where you feel obligated to spend money on people who don't really need or want anything so you can go into debt. I prefer making people gifts so I know my heart is in it and it isn't just about obligation. I don't like people feeling like they have to spend a bunch of money, especially if times are hard for them.
The point I am trying to make is that Christmas to me is about spending time with family, enjoying the smells, treats, and songs of the season. It is the joy that finding ways to serve and show love to others brings me. Whether it be as simple as taking photos for friend's Christmas cards or drawing quotes for others to enjoy, I just love the parts that are just to make others happy.
I hope all my blog friends are enjoying this season for what it is really supposed to be about. Giving, remembering Christ, loving, family, and celebrating with those we love. I hope all of you realize you don't have to give expensive gifts to show your appreciation to others. I hope you are able to feel the spirit of the season by giving of your heart and time to those you love. I myself am really trying hard to. Which means I haven't been to the mall and I haven't purchased ONE single gift yet. And I just may not to boycott the commercialism! haha
And with that, Merry Christmas to all! Suzy
PS - This is the page I had on the American Crafts blog this week. If you go to this post, you can leave a comment by Friday to win their complete Hollyday line which I used to make this layout.
Merry Christmas, Suzy!!! :) Love your gingerbread layout, as always!!
Posted by: photochic | December 15, 2011 at 04:29 PM
I know exactly what you mean about the presents part being a downer at Christmas. I love all the other stuff, tree, cookies, family, decorations...but then the amount of money that I have to spend on family is just too much...and then I don't get any Christmas cards in the mail anymore...lol..just a greeting on FB. Merry Christmas Suzy :) your work is wonderful, you should go into the greeting card business...
Posted by: laurie lariviere | December 16, 2011 at 09:21 AM
I agree with you totally......MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Cheri H.
Posted by: Cheri | December 20, 2011 at 09:22 PM
Your download is a wonderful reminder of what this time of year is all about. Thank you. Merry Christmas, my sweet friend!
Posted by: Megan Hoeppner | December 22, 2011 at 02:59 PM
That stamp set is so stinking cute. Those clouds would be adorable with clear embossing powder on them. As always love your work and always look forward to seeing more!
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