It has taken me quite a while, but it's finally starting to feel a lot like Christmas around here.
Let me be clear, that doesn't necessarily mean it's starting to look a lot like Christmas. Yes, the tree is up and decorated, sort of. Yes, there are lights and garland in some places and you would know it's almost Christmas if you entered the room, but there is plenty of space here that speaks ordinary! And I'm finally okay with that. Sort of.
I hope to come back here and write more about what it feels like with my new approach to this time of year that in recent years has caused me more distress than joy. I'll take all the joy this year. All of it. And the joy that I'm talking about cannot be threatened by the lack of decorations, traditions, or physical space in our home. In fact, it might be increased by the realization of the very fact that I will have to let go of my expectations and comfort. I'll pay attention to the fact that I am the only one it ever really bothers to have to squeeze into the nooks and crannies of our living-dining-kitchen common area to make space for our beautiful, boisterous, rambunctious family. And they never complain. Not ever.
I am thankful. And I will count it all joy.
We're busy around here, taking care of people we love. Yes, we're also exhausted. We wouldn't have it any other way. Except maybe a little more energy. Yes please, I could use some of that LOL.