“Christmas is not about what’s under the tree, but who’s around it.”🎄
Yesterday was the Christmas party of my daughter at her daycare center here in our community. A simple celebration that turned into a heartwarming memory.
The morning bell at her school rang earlier than usual and with it came excitement that could be felt even before we arrived. My daughter had been talking about this day nonstop. “Mama, Santa will visit our school! She keeps saying, her voice filled with pure belief and wonder. Her excitement alone was enough to wake me up, even though I’m so tired from my work the night before and had woken up extra early for Simbang gabi. My body was tired, but my heart chose happiness. I wanted her to see that Christmas is something to smile about, no matter how busy or exhausted we feel.
Weeks before the party, the parents had a meeting to decide how the gift-giving would work. We voted between having an exchange gift or inviting Santa. I personally voted for exchange gifts because I wanted our kids to learn that Christmas is a season of giving, not just receiving. I imagined them choosing something thoughtfully for a classmate, learning kindness at a young age. But majority won, and we decide on “Santa Mama” where each mother prepares for her child’s desired gift, and Santa delivers it at School.
At first, I hesitated. But seeing my daughter’s excitement changed everything. Sometimes letting children believe in magic is part of childhood and magic doesn’t last forever. So, I embraced it.
The setup was simple but meaningful. It was a bring your own baon” kind of party, which I honestly loved. I prepared her favorite spaghetti, the kind she always asks for at home. Nothing expensive, but made with love. While packing it, I felt that quiet joy only parents understand, the happiness of doing small things that make your child feel special.
When Santa finally arrived, the room instantly transformed. Little voices grew louder, eyes grew wider, and smiles stretched from ear to ear. My daughter clutched her gift like it was treasure, her face glowing with excitement. In that moment, I forgot how tired I was. I forgot the sleepless night and the early morning. All I saw was joy.
There was also a parent’s exchange gift. And this time it was groceries, practical, helpful and honestly very appreciated, we laughed, shared stories, and enjoyed the simple celebration together.
That Christmas party reminded me that joy doesn’t come from grand plans or expensive setups. It comes from effort, presence and shared moments. The morning bell didn’t just signal a school activity, it rang in memories, lesson and love.
And for my daughter, Santa didn’t just visit her school. He visited her heart, and mine too.
Thank you for reading my Story about our Christmas party in school. This is my owned picture, edited in Canva. Wishing you and your family a peaceful and blessed Christmas and a New year filled with Kindness, hope and beautiful memories. 💛💚❤️