The Magic of Christmas

It's only December 2nd and already my children have reminded me of the simple wonder of the season. Yesterday, our family picked out a tree for Family Home Evening. And last night, my husband and I attempted to put this living thing inside our home and make it a part of our family for the next 25 days. (Don't you think the tradition of a Christmas tree is quite funny?) Each year, we both swear that we will "NEVER" get a real tree again. (It's really not THAT bad once it's all said and done.) And the smell of a fresh tree in the house is unbeatable.

We have quite a high ceiling, so we enjoy getting a tall tree. This year, we got a 9 foot beauty, and while putting it in the stand, the tree stand broke from the weight of holding the tree. So...I quickly made a dash to Wal-Mart to buy a replacement. Upon arriving home, we placed the tree in the stand, threw on around 600 lights and started the process of hanging each ornament in that special place. The children were thrilled beyond words with each new ornament I pulled out of the box, saying things like,"Look at THIS one!" "Remember THIS?!" "Oh, THIS one's my FAVORITE!" I couldn't help but smile to watch my children's faces light up as they hung simple homemade ornaments. The happiness of a child... Even Katie, my 9 month old, was cooing and clapping and giggling. It was truly holiday magic, and I am so grateful that I had a front row seat to see it all unfold. To top it all off, my children have already asked if they can give some of their toys away to kids who don't have toys. Children understand the true meaning of Christmas, for the spirit of Christmas is truly the spirit of a child.