I love blogging. Thanks to blogging, I've been given a prompt to think about Christmas. In July. Storkie, a company that sells fine stationery and greeting cards is asking bloggers to write about Christmas in July. And I'm happy to oblige because Christmas is one of my favorite times of the year. I've been in a bit of a funk lately, and I could use a little Christmas spirit in my life.

Christmas is amazing because it's a time of giving, of thinking of others and ways to make them happy. For me, it's not about commercialism in the gift giving. I love taking the time to think about what each person would like and truly trying to deliver a gift that they will enjoy, maybe even treasure. I love listening to festive Christmas music and sitting down to address Christmas cards, adding a personal message to each one.  My favorite are photo cards that show how my kids have grown. I also love Christmas shopping. It's such fun to get together with friends for a day to shop til we drop - I can't wait until 2011 black friday.

Why don't we send cards or letters at other times throughout the year or give a special gift with some real thought behind it simply because it will make someone happy? I make it a policy to hug my children and tell them I love them each day. In that way, I'm hoping this always helps to reinforce my feelings for them and let them know I'm always here for them. I'd like to bring a little Christmas spirit into my everyday life and remember to be giving to all the people who are important to me.

It doesn't have to be about spending money. I love sending cards for no reason. And email is so convenient. I think I'll take some time this weekend to send notes or cards to some special friends and loved ones to let them know I'm thinking of them. I'll play fun music around the house just because, to bring some fun into the atmosphere. And while I'm out shopping with my daughter for our girls' day out, I'll be on the lookout for small trinkets or items on sale that might brighten someone's day.

I have a number of older neighbors in my mobile home park. There are surely things I can do to brighten their days. Just bringing the kids around to visit and say hello is a good start. We get so busy in our own lives. I'd like to show some Christmas cheer and giving on a more regular basis. Fellowship isn't just for the holidays. People are happy for companionship all year long.

Though this is a sponsored post by Storkie.com, I truly am glad to have had this chance to consider the Christmas theme and to contemplate on the mood and feelings that the holiday brings. You all know I try to take "Everyday Baby Steps" to making my life better. Invoking the spirit of the holidays in my ordinary life is a fabulous way to do that.

I am receiving compensation for this post, but the message and feelings are genuine. In what ways would you bring a little Christmas spirit into your life?