Let the Festivities Begin

I went into this holiday season feeling completely exhausted. It has been a long hard year and a half. The thought of Christmas, and the tasks surrounding the celebration felt like more of a burden than a joy to me just a few days ago.

Everything was late this holiday season. I started shopping late. Our tree went up very late. My mailed gifts still aren't mailed. (Dear recipients, please consider them post holiday blah breakers when they do arrive.) I was feeling quite buried and emotionally drained.

Then Thursday, a mere three days before Christmas, an unexpected breeze of Christmas joy found me. I was putting together cookie trays and treat bags to give away, and it felt good.  I felt peace and joy. I remembered Christmas isn't about a tremendous to do list. It isn't about all the family traditions we try to keep, or the expectations we set for the holidays.

It is about the miracle of the gift we've been given in Christ. It is about time with family, and the joy of giving to others. And in this house it is about good eating.  (Just keeping it real.)

The whole family is home today. We've had a relaxed day. Farm chores have been completed. I spent some time just watching the animals which is something I thoroughly enjoy, but rarely take the time to do. My little helpers and I have been enjoying the day in the kitchen preparing the feast.

The appetizers are laid out for snacking. Kellen just finished the sushi. Tim and Nolan are finishing up some chores outside.

The sauce is simmering. The meatballs are ready. We may or may not have made enough meatballs for an army. The cheesecake is chilling.

Soon Tim will be in, and we will spend a quiet evening together eating, reading the Christmas story, singing, and likely opening our gifts. We are breaking tradition this year. We are doing things a little different, but fully remembering and enjoying what the season really is all about. We wish the same for you.

Merry Christmas!