Christmas by way of Elfster

So, it may seem a little early for a post like this, but I would like to announce that I am already fully immersed in Christmas excitement!  Menu are being planned, gifts are being hunted, and new crafts are in the works. 

A couple a years ago, we started a new family tradition for Christmas.  Instead of everyone buying gifts for each and every member of the family, we hold a Secret Santa Exchange.  Each participant draws a name and then purchase a present (or presents!) for just their one recipient.  We set a price limit, to keep things fair, and then we go crazy!

I feel like this new concept opens up a very different type of Christmas for us.  First, there's an added sense of mystery.  No one knows who selected them until the big day!  Also, there's no direct discussion of *who* is getting *what* for *whom* (see below).  Finally, with the gift-giving budget significantly reduced, I feel like there is more Christmas Spirit available for allocation.  We're not as financially and temporally stressed, so the little details can really shine through.  We can focus on our lovely shared meals and on actually enjoying time with one another.

I think one of the best parts of one of these kinds of exchanges is using fun tools like Elfster.  Elfster facilitates the whole process, allowing a well-orgnaized exchange without blowing anyone's cover.  When we've done {analog} exchanges in the past, someone had to keep track of all the draws, thus ruining the mystery.  With Elfster, everyone is invited to the exchange and each person RSVPs (no one is forced into the process by having their name thrown into the mix without permission.  Trust me, it happens.).  A draw date is selected ahead of time and the draw is performed automatically.  Everyone is notified of their draw, without the information being posted publicly (except to the Organizer who must specifically request to see the draws -- no accidental beans spilt!).  Then, the real fun begins.  Elfster allows participants to create their wishlists, so gift giving is left to chance.  They even offer a nifty "add to wishlist" button that allows you to add items to your wishlist directly from the sit you're already viewing, all without logging into Elfster.  Additionally, Elfster allows the exchange participants to ask one another anonymous questions.  It's really pretty fun, once everyone gets the hang of it.  From an organization standpoint, Elfster rocks at keeping everyone on track.  The organizer posts information about when/where/how the exchange takes place and there is the ability to send reminders about the exchange.  Again, these are real issues that truly do come up in exchanges!

   

 Here's a peek at our actual exchange, including a feed of everyone's wishlist additions.  

This is a screenshot of the "+ Wishlist" button at work.  Caribbean Blue Le Creuset??  Yes, please!

I don't know about you, but I'm feeling pretty inspired. If you need a closer look, you're welcome to look me up and look over my wishlist.. hint, hint!

Bench Brunch

Since I started staying home, Amelia and I have created a few new Mama-and-Little-Sweetie traditions.  One of my favorites is Bench Brunch.  A few times a week, we prepare a snack and hit the road.  We take the stroller out of our subdivision and down the street a little ways to our favorite bench.  Once there, we settle in for a bite to eat and a talk about the world around us.  Sometimes we identify cloud shapes, other times we watch the resident hawks hunt.  On especially pretty days, like today, we extend our walk and explore the neighborhood a bit.  On the way home, Amelia always asks me to recline her seat ("make it a hammock, Mama!") and she watches the sky drift by. 

 

Here we are heading out this morning.  I've learned the key to a relaxing Bench Brunch is preparedness.  We each have a snack, water, and a yummy drink (milk for her, tea for me).  We clip my insulated lunchbox to the stroller with a Mommy Hook (love those things!) and then we clip Hammie's leash to the same hook.  I've learned the hard way that Hamlet's leash will slip through my hands right as my tea starts to fall and the stroller tries to jump off the road.  This simplifies the situation just a bit.  This morning was our first BB accompanied by cool autumn breezes, so we also equipped ourselves with light jackets.  What a concept!

Isn't this pathway inviting? 

Today we discovered morning glory blooms in our backyard area!  We have conservation land behind the house and the growth of the foliage in the past year has been outstanding.  I love finding new treasures like these.

I believe the very best part of this little routine we keep is that Amelia and I look forward to it equally.  When I mention is, she is overcome with excitement.   It warms my heart to have something like this to share with her.  As she grows, I hope we continue to keep this tradition.

What traditions or routines do you have?  What special activity calms your mind and lightens your soul?