Pay Attention- secret santa

Christmas spirit is everywhere! I love it! The only think I don't really like is the lines of angry customers. I've had several people in line ask me if I wanted to go ahead of them ;) I don't know why. Maybe because I usually only have a couple of things. But I don't really mind standing in line. I try not to be in a rush , I think bringing a rushed energy into the store is hard on people, especially children. I like to watch people interact. Sometimes I try to listen for the spirit to see if I am supposed to strike up a conversation about Christ and the gospel in some way, or anything that can direct them to our Savior. Does that sound silly? I look at it as a secret santa sort of thing. Quietly watch for people who need a smile. It doesn't cost me anything- I only have to pay....attention.

Fall 2011

We drew names on Labor Day- There are 6 categories with $ different denominations attached to them. I think this will bring some unity and fun to opening presents this year. We haven't done big Christmases (which the definition of that would be many, usually too many gifts to unwrap) for a long time. Mostly because the spirit of Christmas is in sharing and giving not getting, which is difficult for children. We have liked the 3 gifts and a trip, because that is what the kids remember best. Now that they are older and all but one has his or her own job I thought it would be a memory of thinking about each person who's name they drew. We will see. They have strict instructions to keep them all a secret!

This is the list

$50-60

$25 exactly- gift card works well

$15-20

$10-12

$5

Handmade/homemade* be creative

Did I mention its September!?!