It is 5:30 am and I am sitting here by the light of the Christmas tree enjoying the quiet stillness of a December morning. The wind is howling outside, but my coffee is hot and my home is filled with gentleness and warmth.
The Christmas season can be so full of excitement and busyness, but I always find a magical peace sitting by the glow of Christmas lights.
I am 39 weeks pregnant. As my children are counting down the days 'till Christmas, as we prepare our hearts through this Advent season, we are also waiting for our baby boy due on Christmas day.
This has, by far, been our simplest Christmas. I've given up on my expectations and guilt. I am only doing what I can do. We've missed a few traditions, but maybe started some new.
We took off an extra week of schooling and I have used this time to read stories to my kids snuggled up together. We've cut out paper snowflakes and made ornaments for the tree. We are baking cookies just for us and watching Christmas movies.
I am just enjoying my children, soaking in their joy and anticipation. I am learning to rest and quiet my heart. I've let go of the stress and accepted that this Christmas will be what it will be.
And that, in itself, has been a gift.
