Christmas is a time for family. Christmas is a time for forgiveness. Christmas is a time for love. Christmas is a time for faith. All too often this is forgotten. Jobs, children, family,the economy, worries, stress and any number of things keep us from the real meaning of Christmas. For some people that is the birth of Christ and others simply see it as a time to reflect and be grateful. Whatever your reasons are to celebrate Christmas are I think we all agree it should be a time for love, goodwill, and family.

In our changing world today with so many worries and uncertanties we all should take extra time this Christmas season to remember what it "really" means to us.  We should take that extra step to be kind to our neighbors.  All too often we focuse on the "big" picture and forget that the man next door or lady in the library, children in your town may need a kind work or a helping hand. Or maybe it is your own child who needs a kind word, your husband or wife that needs a pat on the back?  Whoever or whatever it may be take the time  this season to "pay it forward".  Kindess is contagious and will cause a ripple effect. 

Children will form their ieas about Christmas from their parents. If Christmas is all about the gifts then Christmas will be all about the gifts. Now don't get me wrong, I love the gifts and love to watch my children open their presents with a level of excitement and wonder that they only have on this one day!

The excitment from Santa flying through the air on a sleigh pulled by reindeer is a very exciting concept. He brings toys down the chimney and fill stockings. Such an amazing wonder this is. Little children milling about writing notes and leaving carrots for reindeer and cookies for Santa is sheer bliss.

I believe there are countless things we can do as parents that will implant long lasting memories in our childrens minds as well as our own.

There are countless ideas that do not cost very much that children will enoy and remember. it is pretty easy to please children in the month of December because they know their "big" day is coming.

Calendar- as soon as December 1st hits start a count down to Christmas Calendar. You can buy one but if old enough children will love to make the month of December and fill in all the boxes. Let them X off each day that passes. A glass with 25 sticks is also fun. They can remove one stick every day (can you tell I was a teacher) until one stick remains.

Cards- have children make cards for family members as well as Santa. Have them make cards for the neighbors. This is really sweet if there is an older neighbor who does not have any family around or any young people. Also, you can string the cards you receive and hang them inside as decorations.

Cookies- Baking for family and neighbors is also a really good activity that teaches giving.

Chocolate- You can buy very inexpensive holiday candy molds, chocolate disks, and sticks from AC Moore or another retailer. Melt them in the microwave and place the sticks in. In 15 minutes chocolate lolly pops for family, friends, teachers, or bus drivers.

Pretzels- Melt the same chocolate and dip the pretzels in. Add some sprinkles and let sit. More treats.

T- Shirts- A plain white Tee-shirt can be a wonderful activity and gift for Daddy or grandparents. Get some washable paint. Paint kiddies hands or baby feet and place on T-shirt. Use a washable marker to date and write a little note. This activity can also be one an apron, table cloth or tote bag.

Book--Old pictures or new ones can make a great book. Have your child write captions. Punch holes and tie with yarn. Make a theme, 12 days of Christmas, Our family, Christmas themes, the sky is the limit.

Movies- There are tons of children's and adult movies that are really feel good movies. The classics Rudolf, The Grinch, Charlie Brown, A Christmas Story along with It's a Wonderful Life, Bells of St. Marys and many others. Make Friday night Christmas family movie night. Popcorn and drinks and an inexpensive quality family time is had.

Pine cones- Take some time to go on a walk and find pine cones. Point out other nature and wild life. Have the whole family go or special time with mommy or daddy. Dip pine cones in white paint or spray paint gold and place in clear bowl or tie on gifts with yarn.

Decorations- Make Christmas tree decorations. One of my favorites is the "old fashion" stringing popcorn and cranberries. This is really fun and a great time for quality family fun. Combine this with a holiday movie or baking. If the kids have a tough time stringing the popcorn they can do the cranberries.

Outdoor Decorations- Have the whole family join in to decorate the outside of your house. Everyone can play a part. Kids love to see the fruits of their labor.

Tree- Whether you buy a tree or put one together children can play a huge role. A really memory filled day is when the family tree goes up. Play Christmas carols and drink hot chocolate. Have the children really help. They can hang stockings, make ornaments, help string the lights, unwrap ornaments. They may get bored before it is over but will always remember tree decorations.

Fireplace- If you have a fireplace light up the tree, turn on the carols, and have everyone play "imagine". See what kind of creative things everyone sees in the fire. Very relaxing. A great before bed activity. Do this several times during the month.

Drive Around- It costs nothing to put your family in the car and drive around( I know gas) and look at decorated homes. Set out for the best one. Let the children shower or bathe and put them in their PJs. Play a Christmas CD and drive around. Who has the best decorations??

Caroling- I had a wonderful surprise last year when Christmas Carolers came to our house. What an amazing beautiful thing to see. A group of people together for one reason....to make everyone else happy with the gift of song.

Grateful- Take some time to sit around the table and talk about what everyone is grateful for. Use this time to discuss past Christmas'. Building blocks for memories.

Communication- Take this time to think about friends or family you have lost touch with. Write them a letter, an email or call them and just say hi. It may lead to nothing or it may lead to a fresh level of communication.

Re-evaluate- Take time to think about things in your life that you want to change. Things that are not good for you. Things that you should let go of. People who do not bring out the best in you. Maybe it is time to start fresh and be positive.

This is the best time to consider your faith. Maybe you go to church every week, month, year, or basically never. Take some time to remember why we have Christmas. Christmas represents the birth of Jesus Christ. As a Christian (which you probably are if you are reading this) Jesus Christ was born and died to save us. We should honor him and Christianity during this season. Even if you don't get to church place a nativity scene no matter how small in your home, take time to read the Bible, watch a Minister on TV (Joel Osteen my favorite), or just pray. Maybe consider going back to church. Try a new church. It is amazing what a little faith can do.

There are so many amazing and simple things you can do to make this season a special one. All it really takes is a desire. Christmas is a magical time Whether it comes to a belief in God or Santa Claus as we tell our children "Believe It Just That Simple.