Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Ode to a Last Minute Shopper!

Every single year I proclaim, "This is the year I'll get my shopping done early."

Every single year I am still racing out to the mall on Christmas Eve.

Sigh. There is no indication that 2009 will be my year for change. So, here I am 9 days before Christmas making out my list. And checking it twice. Without fail I'll be wrapping into the wee hours of the morn on Christmas day. As for why I do it every year? I'm pretty sure it has to do with my genes. My sisters and I all have the same problem. Can I ever change? Probably not. But I'm happy anyway. This year, I've accepted my last-minuteness and I'm focusing on all the good things about me. I'm a cheerful person, I'm creative and I sure do love my boys. In the scheme of life, waiting to the last minute to Christmas shop is not the end of the world. So all of you who tend to live as I do (and I know there are plenty of you out there) have heart!

Or, even better, give of your heart! That's what this crazy holiday season boils down to, don't you think? Giving of ourselves. Whether it's through our time or our resources, let's give something special to someone who's not on our list. We're all creative people. It shouldn't be too hard to come up with a way to bless someone with an unexpected visit or gift. I have a particular soft-spot in my heart for old people. I think my sons and I should make a point to go over to a nursing home on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day with a beautifully wrapped gift and spend an hour of our time with an elderly person who is all alone.

It's just a thought. I'd love to hear other suggestions of ways I could take the focus off me and put it onto someone else. And in the meantime show my sons an example of brotherly love. It's been a season of great joy in my home. My prayer is that I never forget from where my blessing comes. Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and Happy Holidays to all our loyal Novel Girl Followers. We are very grateful for the time you spend with us. God Bless you all!

3 comments:

Maureen Lipinski said...

Growing up, every year, my family would always buy extra Christmas gifts--toys, blankets, etc.--and donate them to a local homeless shelter to remember the spirit of "giving" rather than just "getting." It was a wonderful lesson!

Jillian Cantor said...

Don't feel bad about it -- just embrace the last minute shopping! And have a lovely holiday. You deserve it :-)

Lesley Livingston said...

You have a list?? You are WAY ahead of me!

And this post is lovely.