Christmas is the time of year for families to spend quality time together, creating memories. Too often I think it's easy to disregard opportunities because we equate time together with costing money. To create memories, you don't have to spend a lot of money. Some of our best Christmas memories have centered around decorating the tree with Christmas music playing and hot chocolate simmering on the stove, or gathering to watch our annual screening of Home Alone with big bowls of dad's homemade popcorn balanced on our laps!
This year as you seek out time with your family, you don't have to think in terms of expensive dinners out or taking everyone to see the latest blockbuster. Oh, those things are great if you can afford it, but they aren't the only option. You can skimp on spending without skimping on fun! Look for churches hosting free music concerts, then stop for $1 sundaes at McDonald's afterwards. Many churches host live nativities or "Walk Through Bethlehem" events. Some neighborhoods have a luminary night and everyone decorates their homes. It doesn't matter what the event is-- what matters is the time spent together!
Here is just an example of something that is going on in our area that is totally free. If you live in Charlotte, check it out!
From Dec. 1 - 23, the Billy Graham Library will be open until 9:00pm for some very special Christmas events including a live Nativity (6-9pm), horse-drawn carriage rides (6-9pm), Christmas stories read in Ruth's Attic Bookstore, caroling, special exhibits featuring Graham family Christmas memorabilia, a gingerbread replica of the Library and Graham Family Homeplace, and you may drop off a book that will be donated to Charlotte Reads.
2 comments:
You are absolutely right Marybeth! We aren't attending any Christmas parties this year, we aren't exchanging gifts for anyone outside the home. Once our kitchen gets back in order I will do some baking and am planning on making your hot chocolate up to give with the goodies and that is it! The Lord has just blessed and touched my heart this year that is undescribable (sp? I'm a horrible speller). It really is all about the thought.... letting people know you care and appreciate them. I've also posted a couple of musicals that our church is putting on in December and am adding more stuff...zoo lights...etc. Bless You!
I needed to hear this! I try to get a good perspective before the holidays near but it is so hard not to get swept up in it all (and all the expenses too)! Thank you for the tips!
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