Building memories with my family is very important to me. I want Lizzy, Anthony and Seth to have stories to rehash over and over when they are grown up. As much as I want them to stay my little ones for ever, I know we will all laugh at stories that begin with, "Hey guys, remember when...?"
At Christmas we build memories by having our own special time to exchange gifts together. We build memories with special friends when we attend Christmas Eve service in Decatur, IL at Grace Methodist Church. The past few years we begin our Christmas season with a stop in Mountainburg, Arkansas to visit with Uncle Joe and Aunt Gina.
Some of the activities each Christmas is dependent upon schedules, and travel time. However, there is one tradition that takes place every year. It's our annual Christmas Date Night. Each Christmas my husband takes Elizabeth out for dinner and a night of shopping. Anthony Jr. and I have our night out to dinner and shopping too.
We began this tradition when Lizzy and Anthony were about 5 or 6. It began as an opportunity for me to finish shopping for daddy and Lizzy without them being with me. Then, we learned from a parenting program that the best way teach your kids about dating is take them on special dates. That way they learn how to treat and be treated.
Tonight was date night for Anthony Jr. and I. I have to mention that since he has been earning his own money for the past couple years, he pays for these dates out of his own money. This year was special as Anthony was able to really escort me properly having his driver's permit. We took our night out on the town to Houma. Watching Anthony pick out presents for his sister and younger brother just makes me so proud of him. Every year is more special that the last.
Realizing that Seth is now 6, I am going to start making these yearly memories together as well. With his out look on life and unique personality, I should be able to blog a book as we make and share the coming years together.
I end todays ramblings with a word of encouragement to my family and friends to make some memories this Christmas season.
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas, Leslie and Family! Thanks for sharing this special part of your lives. I love it when Eben takes our girls out on special dates too. He tries to individualize the dates according to what each kid likes. Izzy, who is kind of nerdy (in a cute way), a trip to the bookstore with a cup of cocoa and a scone and a couple of books is a great date. For Gabby, who loves dancing and fashion...he'll take her out once in a while to buy a special dress or to a play or ballet. She dresses up as fancy as possible for these dates, it's so cute.
ReplyDeleteIt sure has been wonderful to watch your family these couple of years that we have been here. You guys all give me some food for thought. Blessings!