Our Group
Originally uploaded by lelliekin
The day is getting close, the traditions have been kept, and fun has been had. I've gotten lots of great cards from friends far and near, been blessed by so many yummy goodies, and enjoyed the season greatly. Last night we spent our family night with dear friends visiting the lighted splendor of the Washington D.C. Temple. It was so incredibly cold, but somehow even that was fun-to be all bundled up seems more festive than some years when we've gone about our Christmasy fun in shorts, for crying out loud. It was special to share this particular tradition with people we love so much.
Our family's gift traditions are pretty simple (we splurge on birthdays instead), so my shopping has been minimal, and I feel like the season has gone pretty much how I would want it to. Every year I wish I had reached out more, but I think it evens out. I've never successfully incorporated making or delivering lots of treats into my holiday traditions, nor do I give gifts to everyone I know. I so appreciate those who do and I have a feeling there will be seasons in my life where that might happen. I have been successful at getting past the guilt I used to feel that would actually interfere with enjoying the generosity of others. Now I just receive it with love and joy and know that I'll have the chance to give in some other way and at some other time. That is one nice thing about getting old. Guilt and comparison to others hold absolutely no appeal any more, and I have learned to find better directions for my energy.
I do have a bit more shopping to do, but it will actually be nice to spend the evening out with Eric tonight. We haven't had much time together at all lately due to this being his absolute busiest time of year both at church and at work. If it takes us 30 minutes to get out of the Target parking lot, it will just be that much more time to chat.
Best of all, Jeff comes home tonight, and we spoke briefly with Johnathan to make arrangements for his Christmas day phone call from Chile. Joy!
Beautifully said . I can't do everything for everyone either, but what I do I try to do with the best attitude I can muster :) I'm glad you get to spend some time with your husband and I loved being with you in the frigid freezing :)
ReplyDeleteOh Kellie. I swear that an actual sense of calmness falls upon me whenever I read your blog. You just seem to exude peace with your words!
ReplyDeleteI wish you the best Christmas-- happiness all around.
Merry Christmas Friend! I am glad that you're feeling the spirit of Christmas amidst all the crazies!
ReplyDeleteThat is such a great Christmasy picture!! I hope your night with your hubby was fun!!
ReplyDeleteWhat a fun tradition. Merry Christmas.
ReplyDeleteOh, it does look cold in that picture! I hope your family had a great Christmas.
ReplyDeletethat was a very fun night :) I'm glad I was able to go with you.
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely picture! I am glad you guys had so much fun. Mary was such a disaster but I am happy that Tom and Emma got to be there!
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