Some traditions begin on a whim, and yet in their simplicity, they become a profound bedrock of family celebrations, rich in meaning and steeped in value. And it’s not until we’re given a glimpse backward that we realize how they’ve imprinted faith on our hearts and grounded us in hope for the future.
I remember it began early in our marriage, with a simple “baby’s first Christmas” ornament, hung on a short, barren tree, between a few golden baubles.
Like most young couples starting out, we didn’t have an excess of anything. We lived in a tiny parsonage and had scarcely enough extra to decorate our first Christmas tree. By the time our first child came along, our tree still lacked ornaments, but our hopes and dreams for what we wanted for our children were never lacking.
We wanted them to expect God
We wanted them to see God
We wanted them to experience God
And more than anything else…
Read the rest of this post from Simplify the Season Blog Party over at Just a Simple Home.
Join the event happening the entire month of November 2017 to encourage women (moms and wives specifically) to simplify and embrace the beauty of the holiday season.
A special tradition for you!
I don’t know about you, but I’m getting excited for Christmas! It’s a special time to be creative and spread joy throughout our communities and our families. The warm aroma of cinnamon and chocolate layers the air in my home, and although I am never able to create every beautiful item pinned to my Pinterest boards, the idea of someday is enough to keep me happily dreaming.
Among my favorite gifts throughout the season are those handmade and homemade creations. I’ve received many through the years.
A monster cookie jar mix that provided a perfect rainy-day kid’s activity.
A beeswax candle that kept my home smelling fresh for months.
Sachets of lavender tucked within my drawers remained fragrant all year-long.
Delicately packaged sugar cookies, gingerbread men, and biscotti to line the dessert trays.
It’s this heart for investing time and love in creating personal gifts that is behind a very exciting announcement!
You’re invited to participate in:
Fresh Market Friday’s
Second Annual Holiday Gift Exchange!
Imagine being able to secretly place a special handmade gift or homemade treat on another blogger’s doorstep just in time for the holidays. And then imagine the surprise of receiving an equally special gift from a fellow blogger on your doorstep. How amazing to connect with each other more personally…beyond our blogs!
I believe bloggers are some of the most creative and talented people. This is an opportunity to reach beyond the blog page and share generosity, creativity and inspiration in a tangible and meaningful way. Because we never know how a single gift of love can make an overwhelming difference to just one!
You can join the Holiday Gift Exchange by filling out the form HERE by November 28th! And be sure to add your link so we can all see who is joining the exchange.
Sharing our blogs and connecting at the #BloggerGiftSwap #linkup! Share on X
Remember, you can join the Holiday Gift exchange by filling out the form here by Tuesday, November 28th!
And be sure to add the Holiday Gift Exchange Button to your blog to announce your participation!
Happy Holidays from Fresh Market Friday!
Just For You…
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