My elf is more clever than your elf

I've got nothin'.

Sometimes it feels like we have nothing to give.  We've given it all.  We're maxed out and spent.  The checklist has been made and completed.  The volunteer opportunities, the meetings, the chauffeuring to multiple practices for multiple children at multiple times throughout the week, the full-time job.  And then the full-time job at home as well, including the housework, laundry, cooking, cleaning again...you know the routine.

That feeling of "will I ever get anything completed?" is very familiar.  Always wondering if I'm giving enough of my time, energy, and thought into what needs to be accomplished.  Just as I budget my money, is my time and energy being spent in the most wise ways?

These are daily thoughts.

Now let's add some lights, baby Jesus, concerts, parties, and a creepy elf that moves around your house at night creating messes!

The most wonderful time of the year can lead to even more stress.  I realize this is no surprise to any of you.  As our lists of tasks get longer, it's easy to feel empty and spent. 

Somehow the perfect Christmas card, choosing the perfect gifts to give, the perfect-looking homemade treats for the neighbors, and the "my elf is more clever than your elf" use up our energies.

Now, I have nothing against those elves.  Let's just say I'm so glad we don't have one at our house.

In recent years, I've tried to step back and enjoy the season more than just all that needs to be accomplished.  Enjoying the time with my kids and making memories with them, as well as getting that list done and all the boxes checked.  Impressing on their hearts and minds that Christmas is so much more.  Much of this is done while we decorate, while we shop for the perfect gifts and wrap beautiful gifts, while we dream of what is under the tree, while we bake.

But what else?  Is that enough?
It is, because all He wants is my heart. 
Giving my heart daily to my Savior is the perfect gift to give, and accepting His gift of Jesus is the best one to receive.


"What can I give Him, poor as I am?
If I were a shepherd I'd give Him a lamb.
If I were a wise man, I'd do my part.
But what can I give Him?  I'll give Him my heart."