Shauna, Paul and Joaquin Mayer: December 2016

Well, that was fast. It seemed like just a bit ago, the holidays were just winding up, and here we are heading in to the new year. This year was way too busy and way to fast. Things were a bit stressful with a family of four little guys (although Joaquin is growing like a weed) and the hustle and bustle of the season. Through into that all of the December birthdays we have in our extended family and December is down right nuts.

We started out with great intentions and planned to do the Twenty-Five Days of Christmas that the LDS Church had prepared. We talked about it during Family Night and put the calendar on the fridge. We started out well, but lost steam as we were overtaken by the holiday rush.

One thing we were able to do, was purchase and distribute treats and gift cards to various members of our church and neighborhood. On the 19th we go together with the Gardners and put some plates together with treats. We then paired some gift cards with a Christmas card, got our voices warmed up and delivered them, while singing Christmas carols. Each family was very grateful and it was a very good experience for our kids and us.

We also attended Jim Gaffigan's comedy tour; went the Mormon Tabernacle Christmas program; attended Ruby's preschool Christmas program; had a Ward Christmas party; went to the neighborhood party at the Cheboski's; celebrated my birthday; celebrated my Dad's birthday with dinner and mariachi singing; and finally had Christmas Eve dinner at my parent's house before Christmas.

We had a bit more for our kids this year, but usually this is cyclical and next year will be more constrained as it should be. I do not want our kids to think buying things brings joy and satisfaction, because it does not. This year I have felt this even more. No matter what you buy the thing fades and will not last, but the relationships, memories and understanding of Christ are lasting and bring wonderful joy to a heart.

I am carrying this into the New Year and hope to be a better son, husband, father and employee. I want to be brave and just look out more for other people. Here's to a wonderful new year.