Making Christmas Special for Your Spouse

What are you getting your spouse for Christmas?

I haven't shared this on the blog before now, but Bobby was laid off at the end of August, the day after I was awarded my Mrs. Tulsa America title. Bobby found a new job, a better job, with much more opportunity about six weeks later, so the initial blow turned out to be a blessing. Still, Bobby and I aren't in a financial position to spoil each other this year. This has given us the grand opportunity to be creative: What can I give to the man who has everything in a year when we don't have as much as we're used to? How can I show my husband just how special and wonderful he is without buying him a fancy new accessory for his camera or some extravagant appliance for the kitchen? (He loves to cook!)

About 2010 years ago, our Lord gave us the most wonderful gift imaginable: His Son. He brought unconditional love, forgiveness, mercy, and reconciliation. His presence paved the way for the gift of the Holy Spirit. In turn, we were given new lives and the chance to have a personal relationship with the Creator of the universe. Christmas is about the greatest gift our God could ever give us: His Son, and through His Son, the opportunity to have a personal relationship with Him. God has given us so much, so we praise Him, glorify Him, share the good news, and pass it on. Love God and love others -- in practical ways. How can you love your spouse this year?

Here are a few ideas:
1. Give a gift of service for your spouse without expecting anything in return. Do something without being asked to make your spouse's life easier or more pleasant.
2. Offer to help your spouse with anything they need. Stop making demands and offer to be a helper instead!
3. Give the gift of kind words. Write a letter or note, telling your spouse how much he or she means to you. Point out all of their good qualities, quirks, and the idiosyncrasies that made you fall in love with him or her. You can point out the nice things they do for you, but be sure to focus more on your spouse's intrinsic qualities than their service to you.
4. Give the gift of recognition. Some people want to be recognized for their contributions. Thank your spouse for the service he or she renders for you, your family and community through their work, community involvement, or housework.
4. Give the gift of being together. Take hot cocoa on the road and drive through town to look at Christmas lights. Watch an old Christmas movie. Make s'mores in your living room.
5. Send romantic text messages just to show you care.
6. Buy some mistletoe and hang it in your house. Then hug and kiss your sweetie with no ulterior motives. Some people feel loved when they touch others. It helps them feel connected. Smooch your spouse to show your mate that you love him or her and that you find him or her physically attractive.
7. Buy thoughtful gifts under $20. Remember, it is the thought that counts! Be creative and find a gift that shows you care.
8. Appreciate the thought behind whatever your spouse buys for you. Finding the time and money for the perfect gift is tough, and it seems to get more challenging every year. Remember that your spouse did their best! Be grateful for their kindness, even if you don't like the gift.
8. Praise God for your spouse! Share what you are grateful for with your spouse and others. Thankfulness is contagious.
9. Have a spirit of forgiveness. The holidays can be stressful. Overlook minor mistakes and make the effort to reduce your partner's stress this year, not add to it. When times get stressful, look for and ask how you can help.

I hope this helps you to make Christmas and Christmas Eve special for your mate! I know Bobby and I don't have a lot of money this year, but we could never be disappointed...because I have a wonderful husband and he has me. I love him so much. His smile brings me so much joy! I try to show him my love, by being his helper and not his burden, and in giving to him, I receive so much. I am truly blessed. :)

Remember: Decide to make your relationship a priority, make it safe to connect (by forgiving and being kind to each other), and do your part to make Christmas special for your sweetie. It really is better to give than to receive! I hope these ideas work for you. Let me know how it goes! Merry Christmas Eve!