Moments that Count
I recently spoke to my cousin who lives in Illinois. We were exchanging stories about the kids. Our talk took us back to the days when we were the kids.
On all holidays we filled our grandparents house to celebrate the day. We meaning four children, their spouses, and at least 8 grandkids (plus guests!). The house was filled with joy, holiday spirit, and noise. Lots of chaos!
As our conversation continued, we realized we could not remember a gift that we received during those holidays. We know there were gifts but now thinking about it, they didn’t matter. It was the moments we shared with our family.
As I am planning our Christmas in our new home, I want my children to remember the family moments. Of course there will be favorite presents and surprises. Everyone loves presents! I don’t want the gifts to be a main focus though.
That is why this year, I have a new plan. I plan on sitting with my children and making cards for the family that can’t be here with us because of distance. I plan on celebrating those who we have lost over the past few years even when tears come to my eye and my heart misses them so much. I plan on sharing stories of the children in Peru that my sister and brother in law had the honor of ministering to. You see I want to take the focus from Santa, presents and ourselves to show my children a whole world that we take for granted. I am thankful that my family instilled that into me and want my children to know the chaos of a house full…..of love.
~Donna Galderisi
I recently spoke to my cousin who lives in Illinois. We were exchanging stories about the kids. Our talk took us back to the days when we were the kids.
On all holidays we filled our grandparents house to celebrate the day. We meaning four children, their spouses, and at least 8 grandkids (plus guests!). The house was filled with joy, holiday spirit, and noise. Lots of chaos!
As our conversation continued, we realized we could not remember a gift that we received during those holidays. We know there were gifts but now thinking about it, they didn’t matter. It was the moments we shared with our family.
As I am planning our Christmas in our new home, I want my children to remember the family moments. Of course there will be favorite presents and surprises. Everyone loves presents! I don’t want the gifts to be a main focus though.
That is why this year, I have a new plan. I plan on sitting with my children and making cards for the family that can’t be here with us because of distance. I plan on celebrating those who we have lost over the past few years even when tears come to my eye and my heart misses them so much. I plan on sharing stories of the children in Peru that my sister and brother in law had the honor of ministering to. You see I want to take the focus from Santa, presents and ourselves to show my children a whole world that we take for granted. I am thankful that my family instilled that into me and want my children to know the chaos of a house full…..of love.
~Donna Galderisi
Oh, Donna! I want to come to your house for Christmas, your ideas sound great and I know your family is so much fun! I agree, the focus of Christmas is so often what we're "Getting" but the memories are not of gifts, they are of the time spent and conversations had and warmth of family. Thanks for the reminder!
ReplyDeleteI wish blogger had a like button. ;)
ReplyDeletethe chaos of a house full of love. what a great comment! what a great reminder to one who forgets that peace and chaos can co-exist.
ReplyDeleteDonna, I really appreciate your thoughts. The gift of love and joy as a family is unbeatable! The great thing is that when things do get a little crazy or strained, God is there to restore the peace and love!
ReplyDelete