In the movie, It's a Wonderful Life, George and Mary Bailey present gifts while welcoming the Martini family to their new home; Bread - that they would never know hunger, Salt - that life would always have flavor, Wine - that joy and prosperity would reign. Simplicity and graciousness.
Several year ago I started making what I now refer to as Blessing Bags to share as Christmas gifts for friends and family. I love that they are simple, lovely and consumable! I especially love that the nature of the contents are both practical and meaningful.
A couple years later I started including olive oil, herb seasoning, and a dipping bowl. I added to the blessing - Olive Oil that the Holy Spirit might abide in you. I sometimes bake the bread myself if time allows, and use fresh herbs from my garden to adorn the bag. I confess, this might be my favorite part!
I've taken a break from the bags the past two years, only giving them to a very few when requested by my daughter as gifts for her youth ministry team.
Things have definitely gotten more simple around here. The de-cluttering and changing life season is finally catching up, or maybe slowing down is a better way of viewing it. I'm sure I'll be back later to write more about the weeks approaching Christmas, and how there has been peace and contentment where there more often than not was frustration and stress in previous years. My kids are some of my best teachers. I must have done something right.
I hope there is someone in your path who will remind you when life's challenges seem to be getting the upper hand, that it really is a wonderful life. Count your blessings. Then count them again.