Craig and I were taking an evening walk the other day to look at the first of the neighborhood Christmas lights when we passed by a home that had an inflatable Santa Claus bowing down before a manger. We paused and viewed the scene, and I confess having some mixed thoughts. On the one hand I understood the message they were sending–that Christmas starts in a manger. On the other hand, the display seemed like a mix of metaphors that didn’t do either justice.
That said, their front yard ornamentation spurred on a conversation between us about Christmas and the season and the different messages and ideas that get stirred up this time of year. Messages worth reflecting on, I think. Which is why I’ve pulled together a few articles that intentionally address some of the deeper themes and thoughts during this time of year. I hope that you’ll take a minute to read through a few of them.
Thought.Full Christmas Posts:
25 Days of Christmas All Wrapped Up: one family goes tv-free for December
The Bigger Picture Behind Handmade Gifts: reflections on why I love making and gifting handmade
How Far Can $20 Go? comparing the Thrift Store with Big Box Stores, and why I prefer the first
Pernicious: a quick look at the holiday phenomenon known as “spaving”
Create, Not Consume: my journey from being just a consumer to becoming a creator