Christmas Season

Well, it's that time of year again....Christmas! Every year I desire to keep our family's focus on Jesus and not on Santa and presents, etc. Every year I find that so hard to do. We do have some nativity scenes that are prominently displayed in our home, but we also have a tree with presents underneath. The kids seem more interested in gazing at the gifts than the nativitiy scene! I know it is partly because of their age, but I somehow want to teach them what is really important. Their"favorite" toy will soon become clutter in the bottom of a toybox, or it will get broken, or it will be sold in a yard sale. Their relationship with that baby in the manger will last them throughout eternity. We do celebrate each year with a birthday party for Jesus and we try to involve the kids in buying and delivering gifts to a really needy family. We have some other little things we do also, but I'm always looking for more great ideas. Part of the problem is that I get great ideas too late and don't have time to carry them out before Christmas. So, I'm planning now for next year. Any suggestions?!?!
Christmas always seems to sneak up on me each year. I don't really get into the Christmas mode until after Thanksgiving, Bekah's birthday and Todd's finals are over. So, I really end up with 2 1/2 or 3 weeks to get it all done. I've decided this is not enough time! We have attended 2 Christmas parties, shopped, wrapped, decorated the house, helped a needy family, baked, delivered presents, sent Christmas cards, made Christmas projects, etc. all while trying to keep up with homeschooling and the regular day to day tasks of cooking, cleaning, laundry, errands, etc. I am tired! I miss those carefree days of childhood when you are out of school and you just play games, watch tv, and eat fun Christmas food!! I hope I am providing some of those fun times for my children like I remember having as a child.
Well, enough rambling for today. I'm trying to get packed to leave for a quick trip to Maryville to celebrate Christmas with Todd's family. I guess I better get back to it...