NANA SAYS CHRISTMAS NEEDS CHILDREN

No matter how many sophisticated lunches and time with friends, being around little children at Christmas helps to recapture some of the magical moments. The way we try to keep the Santa presence real for children. While reading the Nativity story for the first times to my grandchildren or letting them play with my small creche or doing some Christmas crafts or eating Christmas cookies are some of the activities that abound in the season for me. Little gifts are exchanged at all venues. My granddaughter received an item from her dance teacher and she was thrilled. As adults we must be aware that sometimes it is too much for all of us and find ways to do some quiet things- like an afternoon nap on their school break. Outdoor activities do tire children so even a brisk walk pulling the little ones in a sleigh works! Creating our own Christmas moments like Nana sitting with two of her grandchildren by their tree and having a photo taken- one of the Christmas present moments! Many families are expecting their "big children" home from university for the big event. Sometimes it has been months and Christmas is the opportunity to gather family together. With cars, boats, trains and planes those children are making their way home. I remember that feeling when Sonya was away at university- glad to have her home for the week! It is a blessing the girls and families live so close to Adolph and me. Are you glad to have your children- big and small with you? How do children help you enjoy the Christmas season? Are there special activities you do-creating your own family traditions? Grandparents- you have the opportunity to teach your grandchildren about your old traditions or are your grandchildren giving you ideas to make some new ones! Yes children do make Christmas special! It is really about that first baby- Jesus!

NANA SAYS CHILDREN NEED MAGICAL MOMENTS

Childhood can bring a belief in the Tooth Fairy, the Easter Bunny and Santa Claus. Is it right for little ones to think there is something magical? I think so. It helps to believe in things beyond ourselves. Like any faith group, that prays to a diety-to believe. With the Christmas season upon us, Santa Claus is huge. To see the expectations of children, believing is joyful for this Nana. I loved playing Santa when my children were little. For those less fortunate, we all can help make the magical moments happen by our toy and food contributions to our favourite local charities. Magical! Helping people believe! Unfortunately, older children may want to spoil the magic for the younger children in any family. Teaching them to respect the little ones' beliefs can take creative parenting! The magic of Christmas with the birth of the Christ child! Telling the story over and over again! Having a creche children can touch and play with the figures! Creating magical moments in your home! Inside all of us is the child wanting to recapture those magical moments! By being part of the grandchildren's world, knowing the magical moments can help children lead to a stronger faith in life and people. When there are tough moments, recapturing those memories of childhood can carry a person for a lifetime. Even as an adult, when love happens again and for example, an opportunity to marry later in life becomes a magical moment! What are your memories of childhood beliefs? Who created the magical moments for you? Are you the one that makes those moments happen for your family? My magical moments come with the love of family and the opportunity to be around little people! How about you?

THE POINSETTIA

Although native to Mexico and Central America, the Poinsettia has become synonymous with North American Christmas decor. Since I was a little girl there has always been a poinsettia in the house at Christmas. Usually red, the white ones are quite pretty too. The Mexican legend goes that a little girl was too poor for a present for the baby Jesus so brought him the poinsettia. One alone on a table, as a centerpiece, several lined in a row on a church altar, the plant makes a beautiful decoration in this festive season. Do you have one in your home? Do you feel it is not Christmas without a poinsettia on your table? Is it your favourite hostess gift? If so come on by!!