the story of us: 'Tis the Season

The boys have really enjoyed decorating and preparing for Christmas this year which also has my heart stirring about how we want to start our own traditions and teach them the reason we celebrate and why we give to others. We come from big families so it is inevitable that they will get a lot of presents, but I want them to see beyond that. The very last thing I want them to think is that Christmas is about Santa and presents. After all, the story of Santa Claus, also known as Saint Nick, is one of faithfulness and giving. That is another post for another day.

We have been reading every day about the events that led up to Jesus' birth. We also have a Jesse tree. My friend Amy told me about it and then I discovered our church is having the kids make ornaments each week to go along with it so it worked out perfect! Hayden is starting to understand more and it is fun watching his expressions and listening to his questions.

We have an Elf on the Shelf named Raider, but we mostly just have fun with him. Hudson wants to blow up the inflatable train we have in the front yard as soon as he wakes up. They also like to drive around and look at Christmas lights while Hudson yells "lights, lights" the whole time.

Oh, to be a kid again.