12 Random Things About Christmas

I have now been tagged again thanks to my dear friend Keri. Basically, I just have to jot down 12 random things about Christmas (hints the title huh). Let's get to it, shall we?

1. My favorite Christmas song is Oh Come Oh Come Emmanuel. I admit that I do in fact like The Little Drummer Boy as well, especially when Christian sings it. This year, he has actually taught Caroline to say "parumpapumpum." It's precious!

2. John and I are the king and queen of Christmas stocking crap. One of our favorite things to stuff stockings with is flash trash from BSA. All of my sweet relatives delve into their stockings, only to discover they have been stuffed with BSA band-aid holders, little emergency sewing kits, fly swatters with "Call 9-1-1 for Emergencies" written on them, and pencils with the same thing. Truly, I don't think that anyone uses ANY of it...except me. :)

3. I try to order 99.9% of gifts online. I DETEST actual shopping that requires more clothing than house slippers, pj pants, and a ratty shirt. Also, if I have to drag Christian and Caroline along, it's totally not worth it.

4. John and I play this sick game every stinkin' year where we tell each other not to buy presents for the other one. Yeah right. John NEVER sticks to his end of the bargain. Last year he bought me an I-pod Nano and I actually followed the "agreement" and didn't buy him a thing. What annoys me is that he gets around it by saying that he doesn't buy me anything--the kids do. Last night, we were talking about this subject again and I made it very clear that I was NOT to get a present from him, the kids, Santa, or even the dog Charlie---I told him not to use any of those stupid excuses. He then said that it wouldn't be his fault if Bo's (my dead cat) spirit sent something my way...are you kidding me?!? Such a dork. We'll see who actually keeps the deal this year!

5. We draw names for gifts in my family. Since it's very taxing to buy something for everyone, we draw names at Thanksgiving and put a $$ limit on it so Christmas doesn't get out of hand. Actually, truth be told, it's fun that way! The kids, of course, get something from everyone though. It definitely makes Christmastime more relaxed and less frustrating.

6. I learned a lesson as a child about Christmas: put more than 1 thing on your wish list. The way I know this? When I was about 10, my dad requested Dockers dress pants for Christmas, and that's all he wanted. I am sure that when you request something like that, you only expect a pair or two. However, my dad received roughly 8 pairs in every color imaginable! Mind you, he needed them. I just thought it was hilarious that every time he opened a box, out came a pair of Dockers. Wait a minute--he might have something there. Wonder what would happen if I just asked for Ebay gift certificates....

7. I am one of those moms that will give my children clothes instead of toys. My belief: they get enough toys from relatives. I just love the funny looks on their sweet little faces on Christmas day when they open a box with a nice pair of pants or a shirt in it....touches me down deep. :)

8. I sadly admit that this is the FIRST year that I have ever watched "A Charlie Brown Christmas" from beginning to end. It's actually very cute and has a great message!

9. I am one of those thrifty people that shops the after Christmas 90% off clearance at Target. That's where I got my stockings, tree, and 1/2 of my ornaments. Oh and Christmas cards too!

10. I once had a starring role in an elementary Christmas play. We did one EVERY year, and the music leader's daughter was in my class. Naturally, she got picked for everything. In 5th grade, I had had it. I auditioned for the lead part (which required singing) and very impatiently waited for the results. I was SO impatient that I asked the music leader EVERY SINGLE DAY before class if I could have the part. I think he gave it to me out of pity and the desire to have some sanity. I could be wrong--there was a slight possibility that he was crazy over my angelic voice and natural acting ability. I know, I know--whatever I have to tell myself...

11. I learned a random fact about the reindeer that drive Santa's sleigh. They are all FEMALE. That's right! In real reindeer, the males lose their antlers at this time of year. Go ahead--google it. I swear it's the truth! Now how does that make you feel guys?!? It takes females to drive the sleigh and deliver presents. Ha!

12. We have one family tradition that is my favorite. Every Christmas Eve, we all dress up in our best and go with my Grandma to her church's candle lighting service. We sing carols and hold our little candles up in an otherwise dark room---it's truly touching. I hope it's something my children remember as being special as well.

Well that was fun and painless! :) I now tag Misty, Sheridan, and Tina. Ladies, please only do this out of fun and not obligation---or else!! Hee Hee The rules are simple: write 12 random things about Christmas, either past or present. Please specifically tag people and not just say that if you read this blog then you are tagged. I can't wait to read your answers!!!