Are You Ready for Christmas?

It's starting to become common for people to ask each other that question.  You know, instead of, "How are you doing?" we say, "Ready for Christmas?"

Since never in my life have I finished my shopping in November (like I've dreamed of doing), I always feel a little bit of panic when I think about all that's left to do. 

Like right now...there are 18 days left, and I've barely even started.

We've actually thought quite a bit about Christmas gift-giving at Power of Moms this year--like in this article I wrote about simplifying our gift-giving and this podcast Saren and I recorded.

So it's not that I'm procrastinating. It's just that we're keeping things really simple, and I've needed to spend my time on some other projects.  I'm also desperately trying to slow our pace and be in the moment with my family and other loved ones. 

However, there's one more thought that's been helpful to me for years.

My mom spoke in church on Christmas Day back when I was 10.  It was all about "being ready for Christmas."  She said that to her, being "ready," meant having a heart that was fully dedicated to the Lord.  She was ready to praise Him. Ready to worship. Ready to serve His children.

Because she defined her readiness that way, whenever she was asked, "Are you ready for Christmas?" even if the shopping wasn't done and the house wasn't decorated and the teacher gifts weren't prepared, she would smile warmly and say, "Yes!"

Don't you love that?

And if you're looking for a beautiful video to show your children, this one really resonated with me.  It's about the kinds of gifts we really want to give for Christmas. I've been thinking about it all week.

Enjoy!

Love,
April