So Blessed

After reading some Facebook statuses about holiday stress, hustle and bustle, feeling overloaded, and "getting done;" and talking with people who have made references to being "behind", it struck me today how thankful I am that we are not traveling and going anywhere this holiday season.  Now this is a first for me, usually I was so caught up with the hustle bustle of the activities of the season and "things that *had* to be done" beforehand so that it would feel like Christmas.  Also, this time of year is a big favorite and a BIG DEAL in my family with lots of cheer and excess, so spending it with them always felt natural and right.  Honestly, it always felt a bit less than when I couldn't make it home to spend with my folks and family (confession:  I cried on our first Christmas just Eric and I).

But this year, in spite of the move and new baby, or perhaps because of that, I have an entirely new perspective.  We are living in a place where there are not stores on every corner, and my son doesn't love being on the go.  Even a trip to the grocery takes some planned execution.  Christmas gifts were pared down, and either ordered and shipped directly online, or handmade.  No cards were sent out, that is why we have the family blog, you know?  And since we are new to the area, have no holiday parties or get togethers to attend.  Now, those who know me may think this would depress me.  But honestly it is very liberating.  As much as I enjoy being with those I like and love, I have no "mandatory fun" to take up my time.

What we have done this year we have chosen and enjoyed thoroughly - Polar Express and Santa on the Sea - which was magical excitement for my daughter, and thus, for us.  I don't have that sense of being rushed through the season and have really no stress.  Yes, my homemade gifts will be late, but 'tis the season!  Oh well, Christmas will still go on regardless.  I have had carols playing almost all day, every day, and have enjoyed some Christmas movies with my daughter.  We got her an Advent calendar this year and started a Advent story book which is sure to be a new tradition each year.  We have had fun with Candy Cane, our Elf on the Shelf, and all the little prizes he leaves her in her stocking.  My decorations are up, but minimal, and we appreciate how the soft glow of the lights make the whole house feel.  My biggest deal now is planning our menu for our simple celebration of the Lord's birthday.

Simple.

That is exactly how I feel about it this year.  Somehow my kid is ending up with a heck of a lot more material gifts than I intended, and my husband and I aren't exchanging, but I have a lot of peace and joy in my heart, mind, and soul.  And that is the point, isn't it? 

I was a bit nervous about all 4 of us being home together for the next 2 weeks, but I think it will be okay.  In fact, just lovely.  Not without frustration and some angst, I am sure, as we are all off our routine.  But when I see my son staring and smiling so big at his sister as she dances and sings to him, hear my daughter guffaw as she plays with her father, or feel as we are all snuggled up watching a Christmas show or reading or spontaneously caroling as we go about our day - it is the greatest gift of all.  I feel God with us, in both a literal and figurative sense.  And that is what Christmas is about.  Finding the joy in the everyday activities together, the miraculous in the mundane.  Honoring Jesus, who is Love incarnate.  The REAL reason for the season, as they say.

Our Christmas will be simple, quiet, and OURS.  One where we can start our own traditions and find our own way as a family of four.  Feeling relaxed, full, COMPLETE.  I am really looking forward to it, and am off to continue to enjoy our break and just BE.  I am a happy, and oh so blessed Mommy.  And I wouldn't trade it for the noise, excess, and hustle and bustle any day.