Children around the parish have been telling me what they want for Christmas. Many of the things they’re asking for, like Pikmi Flips and Yakbots, I have no idea what they are. If you want my suggestions for what to get for a child on your list, here are some timeless things that have never ever failed to bring smiles and great fun to a child’s life:

1. Sticks – Very versatile toys. They can be used to invent new sports, create arts and crafts, drum on things, roast marshmallows, and endless other imaginative activities.

2. Water – Whether in a tub, a pool, a balloon, or a hose, water always results in squeals of delight.

3. Dirt or sand – I had hours of fun in the backyard with this stuff. It was a great accessory to some of my other toys too, like sticks and water.

4. Cardboard boxes – indoor or outdoor fun. Sled down a hill or build a fort.

5. Siblings, cousins, or neighborhood children – Put them together for lifelong memories and character building and hilarity ensues.

Thanks, God, for making joy so accessible and giving so simple. Bring the children to Mass every week too. You’ll be amazed, I promise, at what glory can come when the life of God and the lives of the children are brought together.

Fr. Dennis Zehren
Pastor