Christmas Tradition

We started a new tradition in our family this year. My Aunt Kelli gave us the idea a few years ago. Since Christmas is really about Christ and thinking about the Savior's birth we are trying to stress "Christlike" actions this month. The idea is you add a piece of hay to Jesus' manger every time you perform a good deed or a small act of kindness. I don't have a manger so what do I do? I turn to my Dad. I asked him to help me make a simple manger to have under my tree. Well, I had no idea that my dad would take the idea and run with it! He is so sweet! He designed and made the manger all on his own (he even let Mason help). I think it turned out pretty fabulous!

My kids have been really cute about doing small acts of kindness. One day last week Callie got particularly excited and did ALL of her brothers (aka "the brothers" as she calls them) chores. She vacuumed, cleaned the bathroom, took out garbage and recycle bins and even cleaned their room for them and made their beds. She was so excited to just be serving her brothers. They of course were thrilled to get home from school with chores all finished. Service really holds a special place in my heart. I got that from my mom. The Savior spent his whole life serving others so why can't we? I love this time of year how easy it is to be a little kinder, more thoughtful and just all around better. I'm really grateful for perfect moments like this in my incredibly imperfect life. Times when I witness my kids have that "ah-ha!" moment and really enjoy emulating the Savior.