Start a tradition

Christmas is a crazy time of year. If you are like me, it's easy to get swept into the hustle and bustle of the holidays. I usually wake up in January asking myself where time has gone. I typically wish I could have the time back to really enjoy the Christmas season but then I end up doing the same busy routine the next year.

I really want to encourage you not to miss Christmas this year. Don't miss the reason for the season - Christ's birth - and don't miss the opportunity to enjoy time with your family. At the Lowder household, we have several traditions three of which are my favorites.

It all starts with our Christmas tree. We pile in the car and all go as a family to pick out the tree. To me it feels like the opening day of hunting season. We have to find the perfect one then "shoot it, bag it and bring it home." When we get the tree home, decorations are pulled out from every crack and crevice of our home, the Elvis Christmas album is put on and we go to work decorating the tree.

After the Christmas tree is in play, it is time for Fantasy of Lights. We live in Wichita Falls, Texas, home of Midwestern State University. The Festival of Lights is an event put on by the university and sponsored by several people throughout the town. It is something we really enjoy and have taken the kids to every year. It is great family time and something each one of us looks forward to.

By the time Christmas Eve rolls around, we make time to refocus on Jesus and His birth. We always attend a candle light service at our church, which I think is important. I It is so easy to get caught up in everything that you forget to take time and thank God that He cared enough about us to send us a Savior, and that our Savior was willing to take on the human flesh and sins of this world so that He could have a relationship with each one of us.

As fun as the holidays are and as great as spending time with our families is, don't miss out on remembering why we really celebrate. Also use this time to build lasting memories with your children and your spouse. Traditions that your family build will be the things your kids pass on for generations and the things they will remember for the rest of their lives. Just look at yourself...you remember them!

--Jay