My merry must-haves

I absolutely adore this time of year – for me it is a time of peace, love and benevolence to all. I look forward to much time spent with friends and family, Christmas songs on the radio, and that winter chill in the air…it wouldn’t be Christmas without:

1. A beautiful Christmas tree

2. Elf on a shelf – if you don’t have one – you NEED one

3. “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” (Only a hippopotamus will do…)

4. Letters to Santa – good for a laugh and sometimes a tear

5. Snow (like once every 30 years here in Louisiana)but it never hurts to ask

6. A family picture for Christmas cards

7. The sentimental gifts I give (never anything trivial – 100% from my heart)

8. A new ornament for the 2009 season

9. Lights on the house – ought to be interesting with Mark’s cast this year

10. Reading the “Story of Christmas” to my babies again and again

11. A Christmas Eve church service

12. An angel from the Salvation Army tree (always give to those less fortunate)

13. An Advent Calendar – the countdown to Jesus’ birth

14. The Grinch that Stole Christmas – special meaning in my heart

15. Homemade presents from my kiddos

16. Trying new recipes

17. Alabama Christmas songs – they are my favorite.

18. Singing Happy Birthday to baby Jesus

I do not ever want to be one of those people all wrapped up in shopping and socializing just to look up and realize the season has come and gone without having spent quality time with those I love. There are several things in my life that make Christmas my favorite time of year – my merry must-haves.

Any Questions?