December has been a month filled with sorrow, joys, beauty, tears, quiet and bustle. As I grieve the recent death of my father, I sometimes find myself looking at the day's activities as if it were happening to someone I'm observing attentively. I move through the day and reflect on it's occurrence's with quiet reflection, and treasure up the many blessings that come softly and sometimes boisterously my way, my tears often punctuating their beauty.
November 28'th my father was greeted into heaven, and on the day he left this earth my dear friends with whom I was staying, received word that they were new grandparents. I have long held a soft spot for children and seeing the pictures of new life on the very day my father went to greet his, was such a reminder of God's wonderful plan of joy and hope, life and love.
Last week I was privileged to be with my daughter and her husband during the sonogram when they learned they are having a son. A son. My baby is carrying a son. I find myself, like Mary did so many years ago, pondering what God has in store for this new and precious life.
I have kept Christmas decorations to a select few this year, no big gorgeous tree is filling our home. Rather, tree-scented candles, sprigs of holly, a wreath at the door, two small but treasured china angels from my husband's family and a 100 year-old copy of "The Night Before Christmas", that was my grandma Edna's is on display. I'm finding the lack of glitz is calming, and I'm so very thankful for our lovely little home. I even shelled out the big bucks (for us anyway) and had two people come in and paint the main living area and kitchen of our home and I love its new look. I've never had anyone paint for me before and although I had to close my eyes when sending the check, the lack of fuss on my part was well worth it. The two days the painters were here, I sat in my room and wrapped presents, thoroughly cleaned my room, got some correspondence done, did laundry and actually enjoyed being in my little nest while the painters quietly worked.
A few days before my father passed away, I called my husband and asked if he could plan something in Seattle for us to do around Christmas. I needed something to look forward to during that very difficult time. He rose to the challenge and so far we have gone on a Christmas cruise around Seattle with members of our church, attended the Nutcracker, and the symphony. An embarrassment of riches. The above picture is from our fun walk around Seattle the evening after watching the Nutcracker. The picture below is while at the Nutcracker, where all the many little girls in their beautiful princess dresses were as entertaining as this gorgeous ballet.
My husband and I want to wish each of you the merriest of Christmas celebrations. May you also have time to treasure and ponder the many blessings that God offers us; from the simple beauty of gnarled bare branches, to the splendor that is often a part of this season, to the warmth and love of friends and family. Celebrate the gift of life that was given to us and may peace overflow in your lives.
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