Christmas Morning

 

This was the best Christmas Season I've ever had as an adult. I'm not sure why, but I can conclusively say it was not due to any external changes, rather, I think it was a shift in focus and attitude. I really tried to keep my focus on Christ this Christmas, not by changing any traditions or activities, but by thinking about how those traditions or activities could and should help me remember Him. So, although December was filled with an endless parade of concerts, parties, and performances, I felt a peace and stillness amidst the hustle and bustle. I found that I talked to the kids in greater depth and with more frequency about the symbols of Christmas. It was gratifying and heartening to hear them talk about Santa and then say "Santa is so nice to give us presents to help us remember that Jesus gave us the greatest present!" or "Mom, that's a pretty bow on that package. That makes me think of our family and how we can be tied together forever." In that context a visit from Santa and a tree full of presents became a spiritual experience!

I also did 90% of my Christmas shopping online. I've found that I shop with purpose and thought, rather than impulse, when I'm able to sit and think, check my wish lists, and look at what I've already bought. Being able to sit in my home and shop helped me visualize the purchases in the kids' rooms and decide whether they were really necessary or would end up being a big space/money waster. I'm the worst at the last minute panic of "do I have enough for everyone?", but that didn't happen to me this year! I'm thankful to have had such a joyous holiday season with no 'buyer's remorse' December 26.

Thanks to Mom and Dad making the trip over on Christmas Day to see us, we didn't even have to worry about travel for the whole week before Christmas, or the whole week after! Loved that.

Now, lest you think it was all pine cones and holly berries at the Wilson household, I'll admit that we had our fair share of "I want that" and "Why aren't you ready to go -- we're going to be late!" and "Stop eating so much junk food" -- it's just that those moments didn't seem to bother me as much. Something else was center stage.

Yesterday I took down all the decorations and stored them away in boxes for next year. It's hard to say goodbye to the warmth and cheer of the lights, garlands, trees and stockings -- but today I find that I feel refreshed, decluttered and clean -- ready to start a new year on the right foot!

I hope your holiday season was the same.