When I was a kid, my parents dragged me to every place on Chistmas. I think divorced parents try to tell the kids that it’s twice the presents and love. I never experienced it that way. It was always open your presents, but don’t take your coat off because we can’t stay we have to hit the next house. We woke up, opened presents, got dressed, went to grandma’s, went to dad’s, went to other grandma’s, went to mom’s new husbands parents and then home. I never even got a chance to breath.

Then, I had my own kids and I got very protective of our Christmas’. We stay home. Sure, we take off to pick up my husband’s mom, but the kids stay in their p.j.’s and play and eat all day. Family is welcome to come to my house, but they know not to even ask us to come to theirs. Selfish? Abosolutely!!!! I dreamt of these Chistmas’ my whole life. My focus has shifted as a married adult with two small kids…I make Christmas what it is supposed to be celebrated for. The birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Gifts are great, and of course we go overboard like everyone else, but Chistmas is wonderful.

Please don’t misunderstand. I think some people aren’t made to stay married. My thought is that maybe if you are divorced, be sensitive to your kids more. Don’t drag them all over the place. A child understands more than you think. They just want to play with their toys and spend time with family and have some great snacks.

What a wonderful time of year. I’m ready to celebrate the Lord Jesus Christ’s birth and all is well at our house. Every year at this time I miss my dad, and Kurt’s dad. I think they are both looking down at our little family and are truely proud of how far we’ve come. I don’t worry too much about the shopping, baking or the extra pounds. I worry about dumb stuff. Things I have no control over.  I have to be reminded that I am ultimately not in control of what happens to me or my family. Sure, we are given free will to make choices, but Glory be to God! Let’s be reminded of my FAVORITE Bible Verse—

Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” 

Trust God! That’s all I need to remember this Christmas. Jesus was born on Christmas Day to bring hope and joy.  May this Christmas give you hope for the future.

Love and Blessings, Carrie