Every year, right after Thanksgiving, I’m ready.  I’m not only prepared but I’m excited to bring out the Christmas Decorations.  Mid-way through November I’ve already thought about the projects I want to do with the kids, the baking, the shopping, the special memory making activities…this year…blah.  Not really sure why.  I’ve desperately wanted to feel excited, motivated, moved.  But I’ve been dragging my feet until…

Tuesday night my Mom showed up on my doorstep with Pizza in hand.  A few minutes later my kids hear a “Ho Ho Ho” outside our front door.  Another “Ho Ho Ho” and they’re so excited that they’re literally running to the door.

Standing on my front porch holding a huge red bag was my Dad.

The bag looked like this:

Except it had our name on it:

The kids were over-joyed and begun pulling presents out the the Santa Bag.  First, they opened new Christmas Pajamas and immediately changed into them.  Then, they opened Christmas Ornaments for the tree, a Gingerbread House kit, Sprinkles for Christmas cookies, Candy Canes, Advent Calendars, Games, Hot Cocoa, and a Search and Find Christmas Book.

How could I not feel the Christmas Spirit after this.  My parents generosity kicked me right out of my funk and helped me feel the spirit of the season.  I am so blessed.

My parents had thoughtfully planned this pre-Christmas suprise party to help my family feel the Christmas Spirit.  And it worked.

I am so very grateful for my parents thoughtfulness.  I am now ready to take the Christmas Spirit I received and pay it forward.