I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Christmas and everything associated with the Holiday Season!!
I would say, "Who doesn't, right?" But I am not so naive as to make an accusation that everyone shares my opinion and is passionate of this particular holiday. I am obviously aware of the people who don't "love" Christmas. At the same time, I acknowledge that many others may appreciate the season (or the reason for the season), but find it difficult to tolerate the additional stress that goes along with its celebration. I will confess that I have been guilty of implying that the anxiety and tension associated with this time of year have exhausted me by making a statement, such as, "Whew, I will be glad when Christmas is over!" But I must come clean to those of you who have heard me say that: I didn't mean it! :)
It may seem a little early to be getting giddy about the upcoming holiday. In fact, I don't even know what my kids are going to be for Halloween, yet! But a little chill in the air and a warm flame in the fireplace sends a tingle up my spine and adds an extra beat to my step as I get anxious that my favorite holiday is fast approaching. I feel as though I should elaborate on some of the reasons responsible for my eagerness and enthusiasm.
Like many of you, I have always been fond of the Christmas season for many reasons. As a child, the reasons at the top of my list were the same as any other child: 1) no school and 2) lots of presents for ME! As I have aged and matured, my mind has grown more aware and understanding of the true meaning of Christmas, my soul has become more appreciative of life, and my heart has learned to cherish the significance of my loved ones that make the special occasions even more remarkable. As a mother, I am once again experiencing life through the eyes of a child, which makes the Christmas season so much more invigorating.
Like many of you, I have always been fond of the Christmas season for many reasons. As a child, the reasons at the top of my list were the same as any other child: 1) no school and 2) lots of presents for ME! As I have aged and matured, my mind has grown more aware and understanding of the true meaning of Christmas, my soul has become more appreciative of life, and my heart has learned to cherish the significance of my loved ones that make the special occasions even more remarkable. As a mother, I am once again experiencing life through the eyes of a child, which makes the Christmas season so much more invigorating.
Well, this blog does have a point, so let me get to it. At this stage in my life, I look more forward to giving than receiving, but I am in no way immune to the excitement and joy that goes along with being the beneficiary. Last Christmas, I was presented with a gift that warmed my heart and brought a smile to my face bigger than my cheeks could carry. It was wrapped in a tiny box that was adorned with a miniature bow that gave no clue as to how much joy could be hiding under its tiny lid. Upon inspection (shaking the box to detect a little rattle), I felt confident that it would be something made of metal and could possibly be worn on my neck or wrist. Since the tag read: "To Jennifer, From The Christopher's," I knew that it would be something stylish, modern and even a little snazzy. (If you know my sister, Toni, you know that she has awesome taste!) Even though I had come to so many assumptions before even peeling away the scotch tape ("sticky tape" according to Addie), I had NO idea how precious the contents of this simple, recycled box would be. As soon as I removed the lid and my eyes made contact with the shiny object my fingers had already begun to stroke, I was silently blown away with emotion. What was revealed was so simple and so pure, but its informality only added to its beauty. What stood out the most was the inscription on the two small, silver discs hanging from a sterling silver chain. Adorned on them were my babies' names: Emma and Addison. This simple piece of jewelry has become one of my favorite and most prized possessions, simply because it was created just for me!
It is possible that many of you have seen my "mommy jewelry" dangling from my neck, and you may even have complimented me on it. My usual response to the statement/question combo of, "That is so cute! Where did you get it?" is usually, "Thanks! My sister ordered it from somewhere on the internet. I am not exactly sure who made it, but Toni has always had a knack for finding new things."
I would have thanked my sister just as much for a gift card to Old Navy as I did for the sweet and charming necklace I received from her. The only difference is that I know just from the teeny, little inscription on each disc that she had me in mind when she purchased it. It was not on a sales rack with 15 other identical pieces waiting to go home with the next last-minute shopper to pass. This was a gift that was personally and lovingly created JUST for ME.
Well, friends, I said I had a point, and here it is:
Almost a year later, I am still just as proud of my mommy necklace as I was the day it was first placed around my neck. I wear it as often as I can. I have become so intrigued with it and the joy it brought to me on an already joyous occasion, that I want to offer you the opportunity to surprise a loved one with the uniqueness of a personalized, hand-stamped piece of jewelry. Toni and I have taken on a new hobby, and after lots and lots of practice, we have perfected the technique of creating these timeless treasures. We are undoubtedly sure that anyone receiving one of our creations, regardless of the occasion, will be overjoyed and elated at the concern and compassion that the giver has invested just to see them smile. No two pieces will ever be the same, so you can be certain that you will receive a true original and "one of a kind." Oh, I also need to mention that although they are unique and custom-created, they are very, very affordable! The best part is that this is a gift you won't have to order from "somewhere on the internet." Placing your trust in someone local who you already know can only increase your certainty that you will receive exactly what you ordered.
We are all familiar with the phrase, "It's the thought that counts." Well, it certainly is! It was my sister's thoughts that "wowed" me last Christmas, and I have not found a way that I can top that! But believe me, I will continue to try! :)
