Our Elf on the Shelf Alternative (& a Word of Caution, too)

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Our Elf on the Shelf Alternative (& a Word of Caution, too)

So, first of all, this is NOT my original idea. Here's my inspiration I found on pinterest from The Imagination Tree {such a precious blog!} I was inspired by her thoughts and creativity! So I took it and ran with it and this is what we came up with.

I take no issue with EOTS except we're kind of creeped out by him. Here's why I dove head-first into an alternative to him:

We began our Christmas traditions before we had a relationship with Christ. Therefore, traditions were established without our having ever taken the time to evaluate them through the lens of our faith. Of course, hindsight is 20/20... but I wish I hadn't began the Santa thing. If I could go back, I'd go a different route.

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3 Reasons Why I Keep My Christmas Decor Super Simple

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3 Reasons Why I Keep My Christmas Decor Super Simple

Three years ago, rather than do what I'd *always* done and pull out a multitude of shiny Rubbermaid bins filled to the brim with everything under the sun that was sparkly, colorful, and very "Santa"- I decided to simplify. I decided to march down into my backyard, chop down a pine sapling, throw one strand of oversized-bulb lights on it, and call it a day. I did this for three reasons I'd like to share now, hoping that any of you that may be feeling a heart-call to do things just a little differently this year, might be encouraged that you are not alone. 

1. It's cheaper. Now, one might argue that using an artificial tree that you simply store each year, along with all of your ornaments is just a one-time investment- not an annual expense. But, I'd challenge you that in the Pin-crazy age we live in, none of us just use the same old stuff from last year. 

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30 Days of Thanks-{GIVING}

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30 Days of Thanks-{GIVING}

November is traditionally the month that we give thanks... it's become quite the trend on Facebook to post one thing each day that you're thankful for all through November. I think this is a fun way to reflect on all of our blessings as we approach the holiday season. However, the Lord has recently placed something on my heart that I would like to begin as a tradition (and CHALLENGE!) for my family. It's a tradition/challenge that I'd like to share and would feel humbled and blessed if you would join us in it :-)

This year, rather than take 30 seconds and think of a thing I can SAY thanks for each day, I'd like to take time {real time} to reflect on a way to GIVE THANKS. The Lord GAVE His only begotten son so that we may have everlasting life... as we walk through November, we approach the month of His sacred giving.

I want to spend my November in anticipation of the anniversary of His gift to US, by GIVING all that I can, in Thanks.

Here's the plan...

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