December Stockings

I know this year Elf On The Shelf has gotten very popular, and it is a precious, genius idea, but I have to give my Mom credit for coming up with her own version some 30 years ago. I just wish she had written a cute book about it so she could have reaped the benefits. :)

For as long as I can remember on December 1st we hung stockings outside our bedroom doors and if we were "good" - however that was defined depending on our ages - then we would get a little treat in the morning. In elementary school our whole carpool started doing it so every morning we'd talk about what we got in our stockings. It was embarrassing if you had to confess that you didn't get anything. :)

Mom even sent us packages in college with the days of the month on them. I am sure my sisters opened them all a once but my rule following self would make my bed (one of our rules growing up) and then open the gift each day. It was just a little piece of home for the holidays.

The gifts were anything from a new shirt to a pack of gum and everything in between.

Like lots of family traditions I love passing this one on to my boys! I think 3-years-old is probably the perfect age to start, but Wyatt would be devastated if Stacey got something and he didn't, so this year they're both starting the tradition. And during a busy month like December it doesn't hurt to have a little extra incentive for obedience!

Just in case you're curious I've included our rules below. These are printed on our fridge with the pictures so even though they can't read, we can review the rules.

At their ages we give warnings for some of these, but we've had plenty of mornings with empt stockings and they do not like that one bit. When they do have a good day I love picking a treat from my stash and seeing them enjoy it in the morning.

(My font colors seem to be messing up so if you can't see the rules in google reader you may have to go to my blog?? Sorry)

Obey the first time, with a good attitude.

"Children obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord." Colossians 3:20

Be kind to your brother.

“Honor one another above yourself.” Romans 12:10

Have a good day at school (no color changes).

“God gives joy to those who promote peace.” Proverbs 12:20

Help clean up toys, and help with a daily chore (assigned by Mom).

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart.” Colossians 3:23”

Go to bed/Take a nap without fussing.

“Do everything without complaining or arguing.” Philippians 2:14