Expectations

Christmas is coming and the geese may be getting fat, but our bank accounts haven't been so fortunate. Consequently, I've been working very, very hard at setting my kids' expectations very, very low. In terms of Christmas gifts, that is. Santa has allegedly reported (for the benefit of the kids in my family who are  lucky enough to still Believe) that he, too, has felt the crunch from these rough economic times, and has had to tighten his belt.  A lot.

Recent happenings illustrate the results of my efforts:

In Wal-Mart the other day, I suggested we buy a small (I emphasize the word small) tree to take to Grandpa's (age 89, lives alone) to help bring him some Christmas cheer. I was met with extreme reluctance. They were afraid that the cost of any purchase will need to be subtracted off of our already limited Christmas budget. This concerned them - almost more than their love for their Grandpa.  They were truly conflicted and felt guilty. (Verdict: Success on one hand, Failure on the other, and a few pulled heartstrings.)

Seth (8) and Rob (12) approached me, toy magazine in hand. Almost apologetically, they showed me two items they thought perhaps they might have for Christmas. They presented me with two options: I could get them each a different Tech Deck Skateboard ($9 each), OR, I could get them a Tech Deck Skating Oval ($16), which would be a combined gift for both of them. Immediately after their request, the boys assured me that if those were too expensive, it was okay. They'd go back to the drawing board. (Verdict: Success. And more pulled heartstrings.)

Emma (7) just wrote her letter to Santa. It states simply:  I want a puppy for Christmas! To: Santa  Love: Emma, age 7 (Verdict:   Technically Failure. But, oh those heartstrings!)

Kirsten (14) keeps asking when we're going to have money. She hasn't asked for anything for Christmas, but she does request a Jamba Juice every single time we drive by the store. Can't hurt to try, she figures. (Verdict: Undecided.)

Caleb (4) is happy to help decorate, rearrange the stockings on an hourly basis, and marvel at the beautiful Christmas lights when we're driving at night.  Christmas Wish Lists don't even enter his thoughts.  (Verdict:  Success.  Hands Down. For which I can take absolutely no credit.)

Lowering Christmas gift expectations seems to be - overall - a winning strategy.  I hope to use it even when we're back on steady financial footing.

And, I'm honestly looking forward to Christmas this year, grateful for the opportunity we have been given to place more focus on what's Truly Important.

"The magic of Christmas is not in the presents, 

but in His Presence."