Filling the Heart at Christmas

I am in the Christmas Spirit in a way I never have been before. It seems to be picking up steam with each passing year. My daughter is now 5 and floats around the house with her fairy wings spreading Christmas joy to any person or stuffie that is within ears' reach.

We surprised her today with a tree when she got home from school. All the lights put on so she wouldn't have to endure the wait. Ready to be adorned when she arrived.

I was on the front porch making my first attempt, be it a failed one, on putting lights on our house. Ok, I will be truthful. It was just 2 strands around the door. For me, this is quite an effort. It was a no go based on half the lights being out on the one strand.

So I moved the bunk strand of lights inside where I decorated the interior of her room. A joyous bellow of thank yous and I love it resounded through the house.

People say Christmas is for kids and as I watch it unfold for children, I reckon it certainly is. Everything is done around the tree. Story, dancing, prayer, toothbrushing, snack. I can only imagine what other things will happen in my house as it has only been night one.

There are three presents under the tree. My daughter's school had their Christmas Shoppe today and instantly three neat packages have made their way home. She was so proud. My youngest stoked. They hugged a number of times as my oldest coached the little one on how presents work.

As I am in line at stores and see older moms watch my children and make comments about a number of things, I am drawn to thinking about what Christmas may have been like for them. With their little ones who grew until they were no longer kids.

I think of my own parents across the country spending the holiday just the two of them, having declined an invitation to travel. I find myself feeling sad as I know just how rich it feels right now to be in the midst of children who are relishing in the true spirit and not everyone gets to have that.

I am left thinking the memories fill the heart and that is enough. I will wait and see.

AFFIRMATION

I find joy no matter where I am in my life.