Christmas Is. . .

 

CHRISTMAS CHEER AND GLAD TIDINGS!

This has been some year, hasn't it? And who knows where the next one will take us? But sitting here on my newly arranged and decorated breezeway porch, I celebrate again the blessings that John and I do have in life and how we so treasure the family and friends we have had throughout the years. . .

When you have chalked up many years of life experiences, it is wonderful to look back and remember those who so richly touched our lives, as well as the traditions that have gone on over my lifetime. . .

. . .thoughts that inspired John and me to recently venture to the San Souci landing on the Mississippi River, where we spent a wonderful afternoon collecting driftwood, grapevine, and other naturals for holiday decorating. . . 

During my childhood, an annual visit to the river was a big part of our family's Christmas tradition. Sometime right after Thanksgiving, we put on our boots and heavy coats, piled into the old Chevy station wagon, and headed for Barfield landing. In those days, it was mostly wooded and filled with all kinds of useable finds for our Christmas decor. 

On the dirt roads that wound along the Mississippi, we gathered the possibilities. Evergreens for wreaths and indoor arrangements. Mistletoe to hang from the door facings. Osage oranges for spraying silver and gold. Walnuts to fill bowls and make ornaments. Grapevines and wild grasses. Holly and red berries. Odd-shaped branches. Nothing was overlooked. It was a grand time and fills my memories every year.

As I gaze out over the farmstead today, I realize those times have mostly come and gone. Christmas has changed much over the years for so many of us. . .and yet. . .it hasn't. . . .The hopes, dreams, and "reason for the season" can still be found in each and every one of our hearts. . .if we will just stop and take the time to embrace it. . .pause and count the blessings. . .

"DECK THE HALLS AND GIVE A CHEER. . .FOR ALL THE THINGS THAT CHRISTMAS IS THIS YEAR. . ."

John and I hope that you and your family will be filled with the true Spirit of Christmas this year and will find joy and hope and peace in your heart. . .just as it was that first Holy Night. . .

"CHRISTMAS. . .MERRY CHRISTMAS. . .MAY ALL YOUR WISHES COME TRUE. . ."