Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Signs of the Times



The Park' s Christmas traditions have changed this year and it was a change everyone enjoyed, especially the kids. We all get together on Christmas Eve at my son's house in Tehachapi. Then everyone can have their own Christmas Morning at home.
Until a year ago we were a family owned and run Residential and Commercial Construction Business. We closed down a year ago leaving 2 of our three sons and my husband and I without an income.
We have all found income of sorts, but after 25 years it was a shock to our pocketbooks.
We always all exchanged gifts with everyone and it took about 3 hrs. to open presents.  This year we asked that there be no gifts for the adults and one of my DIL's suggested that the kids draw names and make a gift. Well, the three DIL's put there heads together and came up with the greatest idea. They drew names and were to make a picture or write something (age appropriate) for the cousin they drew. Then they were to frame it. Each year they draw names and make another picture to fit the same frames. Year after year they will put the new picture on top and the frame will become a keepsake with all the pictures. It will be fun seeing the scribbles and primitive pictures change for each child.
They had so much fun finding out who drew their name and each one loved whatever they got, as you can see in our picture. They were all so sweet and apprecitive where in previous years it was total cauous when we all had multiple presents to open, and no one could remember the next day who gave who what.

7 comments:

Nancy Yoakum said...

That is really a wonderful idea and something that will be cherished forever. Another blog friend, Carrie at Cozy Cottage, had a great idea. Click on her link through my blog and see what she did. Just amazing!

Smiles, Nancy

Suzanne said...

First of all that is just a great photo of you and Dennis. You hardly look old enough to have all those grandkids. I love the idea you all came up with. I know what you mean about the stack of presents and the craziness that comes with them. Handmade gifts help us all remember the true meaning of Christmas. Great post!

My Vintage Studio said...

Wishing you all the best for the New Year!

A wonderful photo of you, DH, and your grandchildren.

Hugs, Sharon

Sewn With Grace said...

Hi Beverly! What a great idea. So many times we can't remember from year to year (or day to day!) what we received at Christmas. I have a feeling that this Christmas will always be remembered. It is the gift from our hands that warm others hearts and remain the most precious gifts. Wishing you much love and joy in the New Year!

Dogmom Diva said...

Hi Beverly, nice to meet you..I saw your blog at another blog, can't remember which one, but I love the idea of the kids drawing names and making a gift..
I take it you live in So Cal? We are life long southern Californians, living now near Palm Springs, but spent most of our married life in eastern L.A. county.
Hope 2010 is a good one for you and many blessings sent your way!
Barb

southerninspiration said...

What a grand idea!!! I loved seeing your family and your grands.....hopefully one day I'll have a similar picture! thanks for sharing!
Happy New Year!

Suzanne

Anonymous said...

I was pleasantly surprised to see you pictured with all your grandchildren. I know as Grandparents we treasure having time with our grandchildren more than anything they can buy us. Great idea. Love to all and Happy New Year.