Growing up there was no mention in our home of Santa, easter bunny, tooth fairy and such it just happened and then incorporated after I heard about it from other children when I went to school. So do you feel it is deceptive to your child to talk, introduce and such these such characters from a christian standpoint when they are not real(we all wish sometimes they were tho :), well at least I do)? How do you speak of these in your home? We always have with Lydia so far. Thank you for your thoughts.
I have a sister-in-law that is not a NT christian and she poses this question to me in one of our "talks" and now it got me thinking and I wanted to share with her other thoughts from other believers. Thanks again.
I never was taught that these people were real.In fact, my mother told me they were not. I did the same with my children. I didn't make a huge issue of it, but I never lied to my children knowingly. We did still enjoy the frivolity of these things. They still placed the tooth under the pillow and tried to catch the "Tooth Fairy" putting the money under the pillow. They called their Dad, Santa Claus, because we told them that is who is was. And the Easter Bunny...well, that one was a little too much to swallow. What rabbit lays eggs? I think the important thing is to always be honest but to provide a fun, happy time to children during these holidays, so that their spirit is not damaged by truth and that they blame God for not having any fun.
We treat these fictional characters the same way we treat Mickey Mouse or Cinderella, etc. I think my children have enjoyed the fantasy of it all but always know that it is just pretend.
We simply taught our boys that Santa, easter bunny was just like big bird & elmo. I NEVER told our son's anything but the truth. We never did the tooth fairy thing. Our boys knew that their dad worked very hard for any money that was spent in our home. When they were adults they both thanked us for always telling them the truth and each told us it made it easier to be honest with us. And they trusted us completely. But as the other post stated, our boys had so much fun during their youth and all those things were just as much fun even knowing the truth. Telling our kids falsehoods at any age teach them that some lies are ok. We teach more by example than we realize.
We try to be honest and still have fun. I am her daughter. My son recently asked if Santa was a real person like me. I replied do you want me to tell you the truth or would you rather believe he exists? I think I want to pretend he is real.
I definitely play up the fact that "Santa's Coming Tonight!" and I can see the kids get excited. Whereas I've never told any of them he's real, I've not discouraged their fantasy. My oldest one has figured it out and enjoys playing up the fantasy too. I was 10 years old and I remember my parents still doing their best to make me believe he was real (my dad threw a leather strand with jingle bells attached to it off my house and told me he saw it falling off of Santa's sleigh as it flew over). I think it can definitely be carried too far, like perhaps my dad did. I had an older friend who was 16 before she realized that Santa wasn't real and she had real problems with her faith in God as a result. If Santa isn't real, how do I know Jesus is? I think everyone so far has the same philosophy... it's a game, just don't let it go too far. :-)
Personally, I feel it is dishonest to go out of my way to trick the kids into believing something that is not true. We have fun with things and pretend but we try to make a distinction. That distinction is important, I believe, as we seek to train our children to believe other things by faith - the things not seen we hold most dear like about God and Heaven. Betraying that precious faith in little ones with lies is a pretty bad idea, to say the least, in my book.
I'm going to put this out there, it's not going to make very many people happy but it's the way I was raised and is something I truly believe and feel very strongly about.
The difference between Santa and Cinderella, for one, is the fact that Cinderella is never portrayed as a real person to any of the world, she's always been a fictional character, whereas Santa is a god like character who sees you when you're sleeping and knows when you're awake. You get punished with coal when you've been bad and get gifts when you have been good.
I've never celebrated any of the holidays any of the above are associated with, I did get quarters for teeth but always knew it was from my parents and they never hyped up the tooth fairy as being real. They just told me to put it in my tooth pillow and there would be something special there for me in the morning.
In public schools when I was growing up the Easter Bunny, Santa and the Tooth Fairy were all portrayed as being real because the kids I grew up with all thought they were. They were children of the world, aren't we supposed to be set apart from the world?
Like I said, I've never celebrated these holidays, I also do not celebrate Valentines day, St. Patricks day, Halloween, and I do not exchange gifts on New Years because I believe no matter what day you do it on, it's still Christmas. I thankfully married a man who believes the same thing.
The only holidays we celebrate are those associated with America, like the 4th of July and Thanksgiving. And we celebrate our birthdays and anniversary.
I struggle with this same issue. So far I have just ignored the whole issue, but now that Colin is 3 I suspect he will start to talk about Santa more this Christmas. He has picked up on the idea of Santa from TV as well as other kids and family members. I'm a little nervous about how to address it. For the record, my parents always let me beleive these characters wre real, and I have no harsh feelnigs towards them about it, but for some reason I cannot bring myself to say similar things because it feels like a lie to me, so I just can't say it. I'm interested to keep reading what other people have to say on this subject.
For me, I grew up believing in Santa, and like most kids, learned that he wasn't real once I got older. I wasn't scarred because my parents played up Santa Claus- I grew up and stopped playing make believe. I mean, in the same sense, I believed my little dollies and stuffed animals were beings with feelings. As I grew, and I matured, I learned the difference between real and make believe. It was fun while I was little, but I wasn't damaged when I learned that stuff is all pretend.
So, for my kids, we let them believe in Santa and the Easter Bunny. They, too, in my mind, will grow up and learn that some things are pretend and some things don't really exist.
I don't really struggle with this, personally. Fantasy and make believe are a natural part of childhood- and not just where holidays are concerned.
When one of my friends were little, living in Ireland (all public schools were Catholic there), his sister told all the kids at school that Father Christmas wasn't real, making everyone upset and crying. The nun called his dad to tell him what his daughter had done and that she was in trouble and for him make her stop. And his answer was "Um...he's not real...she was only telling the truth..you're the ones lying to the children."
Anyway, so some of my friends are newer christians and they decided not to tell their children that Santa is real because they didn't want Santa to be lumped together with God, who IS real, but we can't see, either.
Yesterday I moved my 2 neices into thier dorm rooms. How exciting, it brought back such good memories. Do you remember when you moved into FC? Such anticipation, excitement, nervous, scared, tears, happy.......... I remember it so well. I went to my old room and looked in the closet and still on the wall is what I wrote over 10 years ago. I loved reading it again. Decorating the room and seeing the new roomates and all, it was just a great time. All the hubbub of the new beginning. Then today Don T. did such a good lesson to the 702 ppl in attendance. I love the sundays that we are filled to the brim and the singing is so wonderful. We do have the possibility of a tropical storm poss. hurricane to come in this week, nice way to start the first week at FC huh? Anyway, hope the thoughts brought some good memories back for you. What do you think of when you think of your move in day whether you or someone you loved moved in?
Clint lives about 1.5 hours south of us. So we see him every so often. Do the Boyds attend TT (Gina and Dave)? I was in the same suite with Dave while at FC.
OK I feel so stupid. I know who you are!!!!! I didn't know that this was you on pleo though. Anyway...nice to see you on here and thanks for all your comments. What a crazy post I have going huh!!!!
I would love to get together with you! Maybe we can all go shopping (but not at Hallmark, Walmart, Target, etc.!!!!!!!!!!) No I'm kidding!!!! Seriously I would love to get together!
We attend Eastside Church of Christ, Jason Longstreth used to preach there but now he works at FC of all places :) He's a great guy. I believe he preaches at Forrest Hills now. I could be wrong. What people do you know? :) Chances are good that I've at least heard of them :)
The weight for me is so difficult because I can't walk, run, exercise, I am using the bow flex, light weights and faster motions. Last Thur. morn. I was doing the calf curls and every muscle in my left leg spasamsed for about 4 min. It was so painful, I haven't used the bow flex since then. Guess I'm a little scared of it. But think I'm going to try it again on Mon. Morn. Praying that I can do it. I need to lose the weight before my back surgery.
Oh, and I haven't forgotten about the consignment thing. I really thought I was going to have more time to get that ready to go when the boys started school, but not so. I DO plan to get to that in the near future. It might be a while, but I'll let you know when it's all ready and I am making plans to drive over there.
We are doing good, just plodding along. I'm so glad you are close by the girls and seeing after them, I know they appreciate all you do for them. I guess they are all settled in?
She is not "living" with them but is at the house a lot of the time. They do not want to give up their independance. I'll let Sheena and Roy know and we'll get someone over to mow the yard.
Mike is actually a deacon in a congregation somewhere in VA. He and his wife Catherine now have 2 kids (Xavier and Veronica) which are ADORABLE. He's doing well. You can reach him through the "contact us" link at the bottom of www.michaelmyrick.com. :)
Thank you. I'm not sure why they are using Levaquin it is normally used in lung, sinus or skin infections. We are praying that the blockage will resolve itself.
Prayers are needed for this precious family. I am not real familiar with them but have learned of them on Pleo. This breaks my heart. Prayers of strength and comfort for the Ing family. Go here for updates.
Good tips! Thanks! And yes, it all made sense. That camping/marshmallows/movie thing sounds fun! Will have to do that one on a Friday night. We aren't going to keep the kids out late tomorrow! Thanks! See you Sunday morning.
This rips at everyones heart, we need to encourage the parents as they make their final journey with their precious child. I know that God will give them peace of mind that is beyond our understanding.
So I am hooked on the series by Stephanie Meyer--- Who else is reading these books? I am about to start the 3rd one. I will say that it is slow but a good read and once you start you have to finish them. I have heard mixed reviews of the book---some have said that they cannot put it down--NOT ME. It starts out kinda slow them picks up and then goes slow agai--does anyone else feel that way? Yes, I can't wait for the movie and will be excited to go see it with a bunch of my friends from work, we already took the day off--sad huh? So who is in this with me? And what are your thoughts of the book and the characters and such? I don't have much time to read but in the wee small hours in bed with a flashlight and it is worth it!
Yes, I'm nursing, but starting to wean. Who knows, this tooth may speed that process along, LOL. I got my first sharp bite tonight and it was not fun. Both of my kids were late teethers, in fact I checked Colin's baby calendar this morning and it turns out Emma cut her tooth at the exact time he cut his first one, to the DAY. (4 days before turning 8 months old) How wild is that???
Sure thing. I'll let you know when I make some plans. My maternity stuff is ready to go, but the kids stuff isn't. Hopefully I'll get some good feedback about stores. I've gotten burned before!!
I'm so tired I posted the answer on my blog. Check with "sutherngirl". I believe they give us several pages to write dedications and thoughs. With the recipes, I put in Betty B's Sourcream ..."
Ugh--I guess you've heard nothing back, huh? I have no idea where else to call. I really wanted someone who is recommended. The rec center is so expensive, (we don't have passes anymore) and I've heard a couple of negatives about them not paying attention to the children. Pretty essential. I REALLY wanted K1 to have lessons THIS summer. Bummer.
Wrapped... yes. She is an angel. Even when she is crying, she is just so awesome. The great thing is, it's not only me, it's all four of her brothers, her mama, her grandpa and grandmas, and just about anyone she's ever been in front of. I don't remember any of the boys having that kind of impact on the population as a whole. I'm guessing I'm in for some serious trouble in the coming decades.
David has been wanting a puppy for such a long time but everything he found that fit his "idea" was $1200. more or less. I couldn't even afford the cheap ones at 3 - 4 hundred....
2 c uncooked macaroni noodles
12 oz cottage cheese
8 oz sour cream
1 Cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Paprika
Cook noodles, and drain. Add cottage cheese, sour cream and ½ cup cheddar cheese. Top with ½ cup cheese and sprinkle with paprika. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 min.
So I have been longing to go back to school for such a long time and yesterday I took myself to the community college here. Lydia went with me and I never dreamed I would be waiting to see a counselor for 2 1 /2 hours, and what was worse is the ppl who signed in after me were taken before me---how does that make any sense? Lydia was wonderful to my surprise, we played with activities, she talked to several of the other ppl waiting and told this one girl that she was pretty--how sweet! Anyway, my name was called I collected my things and followed the counselor--- when in her office, I stated to her that don't be surprised if Lydia is not her perfect angel self in here since we have just sat in the waiting room for 2 1/2 hours(hint hint). Anyway, after talking I only need 3 classes to finish and apply for my medical classes!!!!!! I was in SHOCK I said only 3 classes? So now i need to come up with 350.00 by july 22nd to get started(any suggesstions on quick money)--LOL. Loans are out for me(long story). So Lord willing I will by next summer applying for the advanced nursing program. I thought I would share since this is my passion and only half of my educational goal in life. Word to any young reading this--------If at all possible take your college career as far as you possibly can and reach your goals. I sure wish I would of completed this before now. BUT, better late then never.
Dawn & I witinessed the accident & didn't know it was them. Greg pulled Jill from the car. He could hardly sleep for 2 days, It was awful. They took off life support today and we know she is in a better place. It is going to be tough for him.
i haven't talked to him either but Lynne has kept us informed. They are moving this week also. Memorial service is Sat. and they are moving this week-end. People have been helping this week. I'm sure all of this is hard on them.
Oh yeah, Aeryn is getting lots and lots of love. Bonus: she is the best sleeper of all of the kids thus far :-) Simon didn't sleep for the first 6 months of his life (or so it seemed).
Really? I'll have to try that! Mosquitos LOVE me...Most of the time, I can be in a crowd of people who get no bites, and I'll have 20 of them. That's why I was so pleasantly surprised to not be eaten alive this weekend. I always say I must have sweet blood. :)
We're all better, but thanks. Makes us appreciate our health a bit more. :)
I really wish they'd call us back. I'm thinking we need to just make other plans. Do you know anyone else who does lessons? I'd like to use someone who is recommended. What do you think?
www.morriscookbook.com click on the right side of page on "typensave", and enter your recipe online. Sign in with: fcparents and use the password 4zyrt Please send this information to all you can think of. Thanks!
It was actually a close call on the coupons. There was a coupon for $2 off any CVS skin care product. I think the coupon was originally meant to be facial skin care but it didn't say that. Since the wipes were on sale for $2 I asked if I could use that coupon and the guy said probably not but he asked the manager that said yep! So I got all 16 of those wipes for free plus they gave me $10 in ECB. Cool huh!!!! But that might not work at every CVS.
Seminole took my resume', but has done little else. Meanwhile, I am awaiting a decision from Melbourne FL who promised to make a decision between me and another fella by the end of this month (real soon).
