Surviving Parenthood

by Kirk Kraft

Kirk Kraft of Marysville is married and the father of four children, all under 8 years old, in whom he takes great delight. He believes parenting is a journey filled with joyous peaks and difficult valleys, but it is also the greatest privilege in the world. He can be reached at kraftka@verizon.net.

The Christmas season is fully upon us, and in a very few days many homes will be ringing with the joy and celebration of the season. I managed to hang some outdoor lights shortly after Thanksgiving this year, which brought some joy to both my wife and my children. Our tree was raised a few days after that, and now we have moved to the tree decorating stage which may be my kids' favorite part.

My son is continually asking, "Is it Christmas today?" and I have to remind him it's just a few days away. The anticipation in his little face is priceless and, really, isn't seeing a child's wonder-filled face a huge part of what Christmas is all about?

We started a tradition in our home a few years ago called the Twelve Days of Christmas. The idea is that for 12 days leading up to Christmas day, a new surprise will be placed in everyone's stocking. So each day when they wake up, they can begin the day by receiving a gift, and they can go to sleep each night wondering what will be in the stocking tomorrow.

Many of our friends work through an Advent calendar. Others take the time to bake goodies together or visit shut-ins. What are your own traditions or family memories that you are creating this year?

Creating Christmas memories or traditions for your family can further bond you together. Our family celebrates the birth of Jesus as the central part of Christmas, and we instruct our children about the power of giving. We all love to receive gifts, but so much pleasure comes from giving, especially to those less fortunate than ourselves. While my kids are still too young to serve in some places, they are beginning to grasp the fact that not everyone has everything they have been blessed with, from food on the table, to a roof over their heads, to the shoes on their feet.

Building special memories during Christmas will resonate with your kids for their lifetimes. They may not remember all the gifts they received, but they will certainly remember the love, joy and laughter they felt during special times. Make a point to enjoy this time of year with your family, and if you don't already have a family tradition, think about starting one this year.