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Hey Dad,

Do you realize there are only 14 days 'til Christmas?! That means the Familyman-mobile is on the Christmas runway headed straight towards December the 25th. Let's run through the pre-flight check list:

• I'm assuming you already have your Christmas tree and have strung any lights you're going to string.

• How ya coming on your wife's Christmas gift? Since this might be your last Christmas, make sure you get her something that conveys your great love and appreciation (a top quality blender doesn't do that). Stymied by the whole process? Then stop by Brighton.com and pick out something shiny.

• This weekend is the perfect time to sleep around the Christmas tree. I know we're planning to do it on Friday night. We'll get pizza, watch a family favorite Christmas video, have ice cream sundaes, and fall asleep to gentle, Christmas lullabies sung by Nat King Cole.

• Ooo—I almost forgot, I need to call Salvation Army to do a little bell ringing at the local Walmart. The kids won't admit it—but they like it.

• During this economically turbulent time maybe you could bless another family who is struggling. Have the kids pick out a few gifts, take up a family collection, or buy gift cards to Walmart or a favorite family restaurant.

• Plan to help your wife wrap gifts. I know one dad who has a gift-wrapping party with his wife. They have fun snacks, stay up late, and wrap like crazy. Not only is it good husband/wife time, but it allows you to be your wife's knight-in-shining-giftwrap.

• Help your wife crank out those dreaded Christmas cards. Think assembly line—she writes notes; you address and stamp.

• Plan a date night between now and Christmas Eve to take your wife out. Believe me, you both need it.

• Talk with your wife about your Christmas plans and schedule. Remember a couple that plans together—uh—jams together (it's the only thing I could come up with that rhymes).

• One more thing: take the family to a synchronized light/music display. We discovered one in the town next door and went last year—wow. This year, we're going to go again, and maybe we'll enjoy some hot chocolate afterwards. Or better yet, you could find a live nativity or Christmas pageant to attend.

I know this sounds like a lot, Dad, but don't feel like you need to do it all. The important thing is to spend the next __ days enjoying your family, loving your wife, and preparing for God's greatest gift.

Prepared for take-off …

You 'da dad!

© 2008 Todd Wilson. Used by permission

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