I know that Christmas should not be about commercialism, and there is lots of talk at church about how its become a totally comsumer-driven holiday. And they are right but I find it really hard to break the presents part away from Christmas and have it still be as exciting. What does that say about my brain-washed western ways?

This year we are really broke, and can't really afford to buy our kids gifts, and for sure can't buy for each other. The kids are too young to know the difference, but it still seems WRONG to not buy the kids something. Maybe I'll fill a stocking or something.

OR maybe instead of complaining about having no money, I could embrace this opportunity to teach my kids the TRUE meaning of Christmas!!! Apparently, I have to get it through my own head first!