baking Christmas cookies with my daughter,... the "Santa Coming down to the Chimney" toy that always reminds me that my Dad is present, saying "Ho,Ho, Ho," and "Oh, what's that sound,.. is that Santa's reindeer on the roof.".... the candle scent that always reminds me to relax a little and take in the peace of the moment, ... cinnamon-scented pine cones in a basket filling the air with sweet comfort, mixed with colorful glass ornaments that tickle memories of past Christmases, and a Gratitude Journal complete with pen, just waiting to be written in again, ... my favorite Jingle Bell earrings, lovingly repaired by my daughter with brand new tiny red bows, so I can frivolously jingle for all to hear, ... the 'Buddha Board' to write and draw on with water and enjoy only until the image disappears as the water dries - a reminder not to get too attached to 'things,' .....
Then there's the Christmas tree itself, ... sometimes I let it take all of Advent to decorate the tree, little by little, savoring each memory and a few peaceful moments. Other times we spend one blissful and festive night to put up the tree, add the lights and garlands, then each ornament, one a t a time, with Christmas music and wine or tea. Occasionally we add something new to the tree - this year it was a few new strings of lights (don't you just hate it when one string of lights just doesn't work?) to brighten up the scene, one white and so brilliant, the other those new LED colored lights that are so much brighter and just 'pop!' And then there is the feeling that bubbles up inside when we see all those carefully (or not so carefully) wrapped packages under the tree, each concealing some wonderful surprise and convey the certainty that we are each loved for the unique individual we are. There is a sense of wonder and anticipation that just can't be beat.
And the hearth is alive with the Christmas spirit, too. Fun depictions of Santa in the unusual poses of a relaxing fisherman (so much like my husband), .... stockings dangling, waiting to be filled with expressions of love, and representing all the important people in our little family, ... a hand-painted plate commemorating the little ones nestled snug in their beds, with visions of sweet things dancing in their heads,... the Elf Hat just waiting to adorn the head of whoever is this year's 'elf' who passes out presents to everyone, ... and the Nativity scene, with hand-made stable, straw, Mary, Joseph, and soon to be Jesus, as well as shepherds, animals, and on their way, the visiting Wise Kings - reminding us of the real reason for this season - Love being born anew into the world and our lives, to be made room for, and cherished, and worshiped, and shared.All of these things are representative of the important people and relationships in our lives, the heart of this season of Love.
What are the Blessings in your life?
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