The setting is a very pleasant and serene one. They are sitting around the fire discussing the things on their mind. This represents that they are calm and peaceful themselves. Also, that they each have a special glow to them. The fact that they want to spend their money on their mother instead of themselves shows that they are very generous. They think about others before themselves. You can also see that they love and miss their father very much and are anxious about his return home. They don't care about money only happiness.
             They were all very surprised to find the gifts under their pillows. The journals signify that writing is going to play a part in one of the girls' lives. They fact that they give up their breakfast to someone else even though they were hungry show that they are kind and caring. Mr. Laurence sending those gifts shows that even though he doesn't talk to them much he still knows and cares that they are their. It also shows that he is a very kind and generous man. Jo wanting to get to know the Laurence boy foreshadows many events to come. Having Christmas as the setting signifies happiness, and joy. This also signifies that everyone is in a happy, giving type of mood.
             The fact that they got invited to the dance made the girls very happy. The fact that Laurie and Jo both went to hide in the same spot shows their similarities. It foreshadows that there will be a strong bond between the two of them. Meg spraining her ankle and Jo spilling the coffee gave them a chance to both enjoy Laurie's company. Them both getting jobs to help out the family shows that they care very much about their family. Also, they would do whatever to help out. The fact that their mother smiling made them happy shows that they all love and look up to their mother. They have respect or her. Meg working as a nursery governess shows that she has a liking to children and would like to help them. Working for Aunt Ma...