The holidays will be upon us very soon.  Lots of stores have already started decorating and lining their shelves with Christmas ornaments, trees, and stockings.  In mid-October, it’s hard for me to settle on what gifts I’d like to give my family and friends.  I’m not really in the Christmas spirit when it’s still 90 degrees in the south!

I have come to realize that the greatest gift is not something you can buy in a store, though.  The gift of your time is far more important and will leave a lasting impression on the ones you give it to.

If you are still lucky enough to have your parents on this earth, think of how thrilled their hearts would be if you carved out time from your busy schedule to visit them.  I’ve always been a “Daddy’s Girl,” so I can’t go very long without at least talking to my father on the phone.   It just doesn’t feel right if too much time has passed and we haven’t spoken!  Just last night he called to find out how our recent trip went, and we had a really nice conversation.  He always puts me on speakerphone, which is something I have not always enjoyed, but it does give my mother a chance to get in on the conversation, too.  So, I do understand why he does it, plus I talk for a very long time if something is on my mind, so it probably saves his hand and arm from going to sleep.  Ha!

We take family time very seriously.  This Summer, we rented a cabin and all went for a long weekend in the mountains of Georgia.  My parents had the main floor all to themselves since it’s easier for them instead of climbing stairs to the second level.  My children had the basement with the pool table and other games, while my husband and I had the second level.  The cabin was big enough that we all could spread out but were still close enough to enjoy family time together.

If this isn’t a tradition in your family, why not consider it and see how it goes.  You’re bound to make memories that will last a lifetime, and your hearts will be full due to the time you all spend together.   You don’t have to limit yourself to just a few hours on holidays, unless you prefer it that way.  My family and I have always been close, so we enjoy our time together.

The greatest gift you can give someone is the gift of your time.