Every year, Casey has a list of things in her mind that we have to do for her to have a wonderful Christmas. It’s never anything too complicated, but she’s already reminding me of what all she wants to do.
They were both excited to go to the Christmas Parade. It was so cold and windy, but they were bundled in sleeping bags. I was kinda hoping it would rain so I would have a good excuse not to go, but after seeing how happy they both were, I’m so glad we got to go. Casey started waving to Santa when he was 3 or 4 blocks away and didn’t stop till she couldn’t see him anymore. It completely amazed her when Santa waved back to her. She giggled the rest of the evening about that.
Rob has learned to cover his ears as soon as the fire trucks get close to us. This is such a huge step for him – to be able to take care of what he needs by himself. Three years ago, I had to stand behind him and cover his ears for him. Last year, I had to remind him the trucks would be loud. This year, he handled it all on his own.
They were both really surprised when I took them to a light display the night before Thanksgiving. It was a mild day and seemed to perfect to not take advantage of it. They both enjoy the music and light show, but once again, I was reminded to not get too comfy when we are out and about. When we stood up to leave, they both took off for the car and I had to grab both to keep them from walking right into the street. Proof once again that just because something hasn’t happened in a while, doesn’t mean it won’t. They both got a stern lecture about staying with me, but they were more focused on a snack than their own safety. 🙁
Casey has finished some of her shopping and all I’ve heard for the last hour is she needs to wrap it – tonight – before her bath. And that she still needs to go shopping and that she wants to go – now. Rob has almost finished his shopping. He likes to pick out gifts, but he’s not worried about it. He knows I’ll make sure his shopping is finished in time. Once December gets here, Casey is in Christmas mode.
We got to enjoy a Christmas movie Saturday morning (our local theater plays sensory friendly movies several times a year) and then a light/inflatables display at our fairgrounds Saturday evening. Two more things checked off Casey’s list.
She has reminded me that we need to get grandma and go to the “biggest fairgrounds” and see lights and have a snack on the way home. She has reminded me that we haven’t gone to the zoo lights, yet, and last year, we went the Monday after Thanksgiving, and it’s not right we haven’t gone, yet. (The fact that it’s been cold and rainy doesn’t matter to her – only the schedule in her mind).
It can be hard to find Christmas activities that you feel safe taking your child to. Just remember that your Christmas traditions don’t need to look like mine or your best friend’s or your neighbor’s. Your traditions should fit your family. Maybe a movie night at home with everyone wearing PJ’s and throwing pillows and blankets on the floor in the living room.
Maybe it’s making cards or pictures as gifts. Maybe it’s putting lights and no ornaments on the tree. Whatever your traditions are, enjoy them. Don’t worry about everyone else – just enjoy the magic of the season with your family.