My Favorite Christmas Gifts

They call it 'Black Friday' because this is the day that retail stores go 'into the black,' making a huge amount of their profit for the year. I've worked every Black Friday for God knows how many years. So here I am again, even though I work in the services division now, even though Friday is normally my set day off, and even though I had to go out of town for Thanksgiving. Hmmph!

But it's ok. It seems quiet here, so that's another blessing: At least I'm not in the stores today! I've been in the stores, on Black Friday at 6am. I worked at Wal-Mart as I looked for a teaching position, and I'll never forget that experience. Mobs upon mobs of people, all crammed into the small Electronics department, clamoring for VCRs, TVs, and whatnot. Looking back, and knowing I get panicky in crowds, I don't know how I managed to avoid a panic attack. I was behind a little counter, at least. I guess that was enough of a barrier.

I know the idea is to give this season, and in doing so, people feel they must BUY a lot. And gifts are fine, if they're given and received in the right frame of mind. But the best gifts, you can't put a price tag on. So here's my list of 'My Favorite Christmas Gifts.'


My Favorite Christmas Gifts

1) The birth of Jesus Christ. As a tradition, we always read the story of Jesus' birth from the book of Luke on Christmas Eve. I always fight tears; I almost can't believe God gave us himself in such a way. I get even more emotional at Easter, which is my 2nd favorite holiday.


2) The smiles of my neice and nephew. Their very existence has made life worthwhile and meaningful. They are a constant reminder that God is great, and He gives us great things. And, they're as cute and sweet as they can be!!!

3) Seeing my neice enjoy Christmas. She is 3 1/2, and her wonder and joy at it all is infectious. This is what it's all about.

4) Decorating and enjoying my parents' home at Christmas. My parents decorate the entire house, very festive and tastefully, and it warms my spirit to be there. I help them decorate every year; this year it will be next weekend. I can't wait!

5) The church Christmas play. I was in this for years, and I posted about it long ago; I'll have to dig out that list. It always signifies the real reason for all of this, and it is one of the best gifts I've ever received. So many great memories of being in the play, and so much emotional attachment, as this is how I learned about Jesus' birth.

6) A well-lit Christmas tree. We go all out: We put as many lights as it will hold, and as many ornaments. And we get a real tree that Dad cuts down from the woods. Cedar!

7) Oyster Stew on Christmas Eve. Ok, I realize this is looking like a 'Favorite Christmas Traditions' list. And yes, these are traditions for us; but for me, they are also the true gifts of the season. I LOVE Oyster Stew. LOVE IT. Also love fried oysters. With sharp cheddar cheese!

8) Sitting around the tree, enjoying the atmosphere. We all love to do this; just sit around the lit tree at night and enjoy it.

9) That knock on the door on Christmas morning. I'm a sleeper extraordinaire, so I never liked to get woken, for anything. Sorry, Christmas, but even that wasn't anything I wanted to be WOKEN for. I know; I am an abberation in this respect. My brothers stayed awake the entire night of Christmas Eve; I slept like a baby. But nowadays, I like it more because I get to see Mom and Dad enjoy it, and we get to see the kids enjoy it.

10) If we're talking material gifts, I'll admit, Stretch Armstrong was one of my very favorites. The Star Wars AT-ST vehicle and Hoth Attack Playset were also very memorable. ;)


I am also very grateful for the gift of friendship, which I have found from online readers. So thank you, to all who stop by or read my musings.

Be careful today if you do venture out-you're brave!!

Peace,
Marty