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Every holiday season parents ask me, as their child\u2019s therapist, to give gift recommendations for their child. \u00a0I struggle with this question because I truly believe there is only one answer: \u201cHave a fun and relaxing day hugging, laughing, crying over the beautiful mess of family togetherness.\u201d \u00a0As for specific toy recommendations, I will address that in another post; but today, I wanted to share my family\u2019s Christmas story to help you understand my perspective.<\/p>\n
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Several years back, Christmas time looked very different for me. \u00a0It was the opposite of relaxing. \u00a0I agonized over the perfect presents for each of my 6 children. \u00a0Wrapping presents into the wee hours of the morning and making last minute shopping trips while still juggling the daily mom routine, my work, and a schedule bursting with holiday parties, concerts, and family gatherings. \u00a0I felt pressured to buy more and more each year. \u00a0I was caught in the current of consumerism. \u00a0The True Joy of the season was slipping away.<\/p>\n
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But then, four years ago, we made a drastic change. \u00a0We stopped giving presents on Christmas. \u00a0Yes, you heard that right! \u00a0There are no presents in my house on Christmas morning. \u00a0My children were initially shocked, and, well\u2026.mad. \u00a0But it was the beginning of a new season for our family. \u00a0One in which we focus on just belonging together.<\/p>\n
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Every year, my kids check with me just to make sure- \u201cStill no presents this year?\u201d \u00a0The answer has not changed. \u00a0My soul is relieved, as is my pocketbook. \u00a0The pressure of buying, the worry of disappointment, and the burden of debt is gone. \u00a0And my family, I dare say, is coming around. \u00a0Every year the looks of disappointment get less and less, and the attitude of Advent is displayed by my teenagers. \u00a0What a joy for a parent to see your children content with what they have not with what they don\u2019t have!<\/p>\n
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I won\u2019t lie and say this was a completely easy transition for us. \u00a0And I get that this isn\u2019t for everyone. \u00a0But if you too, feel burdened by consumerism and are looking for a change, I would urge you to consider adopting a new normal for your family on Christmas morning.<\/p>\n
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Here are some strategies I recommend if this is an idea you are considering:<\/p>\n
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![\"Fireplace](\"http:\/\/adventtherapy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/AdobeStock_69303447.jpeg\")
<\/a>The advertising world would have us believe that there is indeed a present-quota to meet, lest our parenting fall under the scrutiny of our kids and those around us. \u00a0And the lists from our kids come rolling in as advertisements and the Christmas culture around them knock on their hearts and minds. \u00a0Lift your family out of consumption and begin the process of creativity and communion. \u00a0Our Advent season is a true celebration now.