The "Little Things" that Really Count

I spent today watching my girls (Arianna & Tati) and came home through the middle of town to make a couple of stops. Not that I am anti-social, but YUCK ... Hate the traffic! Anyway, I was a little frazzled with the drive and as I was driving down our street, I got to thinking about when I could get Jon in the mood to put up with all my paganisms for the holidays, when I could get the lights up to greet us as we come home each evening, wondered if that poor star I found last year would still work after spending the whole year dangling from what was the top of the pine tree a year ago, blah, blah, blah.

As I came around the last curve before my house, I had the most wonderful surprise. My "Lone Pine Tree" was lit up, and down. Now, I can hardly wait to build a new manger to place under for the down light to shine on.

Jon came out looking so pleased with himself, as well he should. He really does not like all the fuss we crazy women make over turning Christmas into a production instead of enjoying the sweet peace of the Gift given to all mankind years ago.

I am appreciating the way we have scaled back on the giving stuff that is not of a spiritual nature and the time and energy my family is putting into creating memories instead. The star and manger were a new tradition that I started last year. It got mixed reviews from the family, but when I had the grandkids spread the straw to prepare the manger for Baby Jesus, I won!

The circumstances bringing this change about have been a little rough for all of us, but I do love my children and grandchildren and the wonderful attitude they are growing through this experience. Though I don't know if I can take any credit for these qualities, I am afraid I do feel some pride and gratitude that I can call myself their mother.