I wanna give gifts: lots and lots and lots of gifts!

I expressed to Curly-Haired Daughter yesterday that I got a little down this time of year. First, Christmas isn't my favorite holiday - I much prefer Easter. I find that Christmas has a lot of stress related to it.

Beyond that though, I always feel a little bad that we can't stuff presents under the tree. Now, Dear Husband and I made a very conscious decision years ago (following in the footsteps of the clear-headed thinking of my brother and sister-in-law) that each kid would get three gifts, just like Baby Jesus. That cut down not only on expenses, but keeps the focus more on The Gift rather than a bunch of toys.

However, I feel a little bad. I would love to get our kids just what they want: that new video system, tech toys, cloths galore, bling and glitter and wow!!! A tree so stuffed with gifts that dad can't get around it to plug the lights in!!! Hours to open all those shiny presents!!!

But we can't.

We can't because we can't afford it, but we also know it's not good for them, for us. My daughter pointed out that my kids were generally selfless - which they are - and don't really care about such things. They are satisfied.

So why am I not?


  1. because that's not how our society measures satisfaction, happiness and success.

    Kudos for raising kids that measure it differently.

  2. You are blessed with the gift of your selfless children. You 've done a great job raising them.

  3. I am quite blessed. I have great kids. They are a real gift.



What To Do When There Is Nothing Left To Do
