Combat Christmas Consumerism - 3 Ways To Remember The Reason For The Season

The holiday season is here, whether you're ready or not. Less than one month ago friends and family gathered around tables, shared delicious meals and gave thanks for all the good in our lives. Exactly 24 hours later gratitude gave way to "getititude" as scores of shoppers swarmed and scrambled to grab bargains on Black Friday. The season of comfort and joy has become more about flat screen televisions and hard to find toys.

Last year I blogged about my own child's sense of Christmas entitlement. http://mommymorphosis.blogspot.com/2012/12/the-christmas-spirit-of-sharing-and.html 

This year our family has worked hard to counteract consumerism and instead teach virtues of true holiday spirit. While I want my little ones to enjoy the thrill of receiving gifts from their wish list; it's equally important for them to learn the magic of giving, creating traditions and being spiritually grounded. It's easy to get caught up in the commercial hoopla! Use these tips to add meaning to the most wonderful time of the year.


1. Celebrate The Joy Of Giving
We all look forward to the smiles that follow unwrapping beautiful boxes on Christmas morning (Hanukkah and Kwanzaa too)! We save, shop, sneak and stress to get our loved ones what they desire most. Hopefully as adults we've learned the joy of giving, as well as receiving. Plan activities that teach your little ones that sentiment. It's important for them to realize that other boys and girls may be going without. Find a local toy drive, group home, or church collecting items for the less fortunate. Donate toys, books and clothing that can be a blessing to those who desperately need a bit of holiday cheer. If finances are tight give your time. Join a group that sings carols at nursing homes or spend an afternoon volunteering at a local shelter. Be the gift!



2. Create Family Traditions Together
Fellowship, family, laughter and love - these are life's most special gifts. Make the season mean so much more by creating traditions with your children. Craft homemade ornaments or cards, bake cookies for your neighbors, attend a performance of the Nutcracker, see a holiday concert, go ice skating, host a Christmas Eve potluck, etc. Give your family something to look forward to each year that's invaluable, immaterial and doesn't require batteries.




3. Teach The Reason For The Season

Focus on your faith. Why and what do you believe? As busy adults we sometimes take for granted the spiritual lessons imparted by our elders. Teach your children the essence of Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. Make it fun! Take part of special activities in your place of worship. Pick out a couple of new books. Put on a play or puppet show to perform for loved ones visiting from out of state. Although Santa has become a prominent figure, remind your children the star atop your tree does not shine in celebration of dear old St. Nick.

2013's Best Mother's Day Memes and More

"The moment a child is born, the mother is also born. She never existed before. The woman existed, but the mother, never. A mother is something absolutely new." Rajneesh

Mommy-Morphosis celebrates motherhood daily, but I couldn't let our special day pass without a special post! Motherhood is a journey and we all do it differently. On Mother's Day not only am I eternally grateful for my own loving Mommy and Grandmas, but also thankful for my little ones. Having children changed my life and they are honestly the best thing to ever happen to me. For every mother/child relationship there are unique joys and (labor) pains, but we all want one thing - to make sure our children grow up to be healthy, happy and wise individuals. It's the only job in the world where, when done right, there are no days off. Here's to all of us who put in the love and hard work 365 days a year!

I've collected  my favorite quotes and images floating around the web this Mother's Day. Enjoy, have a laugh and give yourselves a pat on the back for a job well done.

1. We're pretty amazing right?

2. Not a fair trade, but it's worth it.

3. Don't mind if I do. #1 on next year's gift wish list.

4. A pretty succinct job description :-)

5. Shhhh, your secret's safe with me.

6. Celebrate Mom whether near or far.

7. If you made it through the day without hearing any of these questions you aren't playing fair.

8. Not sure if I'm qualified for this position...

9. It's about choices. Everyday. And we all mess it up sometimes ...

10. Get off the computer and call your Momma!

*Disclaimer - I did not create any of the above images. The words in the pictures are not my own, only the captions. Y'all know how the internet works... I couldn't find the original sources if I tried. Whoever the creators are we thank you!