Anticipation

I'm one of the last of the group of Pregnant ladies from my circle, due in the fall and my life is all about the anticipation of this baby's arrival. His room is ready, my hospital bag is packed and everything is ready - except my body...it's not co-operating. So, despite many contractions and lot's of pressure, NOTHING. But that's ok, it's given me more time to prepare for the other things to anticipate this time of year - CHRISTMAS. At least that has a specific date that can't be moved or changed.

I love Christmas, I think I'm a borderline fanatic. I've been trying to convince Chris that we need yet another tree, now that we have the basement and will be using it during the holidays for entertaining and such - it's only appropriate - plus, this way we can get a TALLER tree for the living room upstairs with it's vaulted ceilings. I love the whole lot of it, the decorating, the food, the get togethers, the weather - all of it. Mostly though - I love that the whole western world is confronted with Jesus, everyday for over a month. Even if it's indirectly. To me, it's just a wonderful celebration of life, joy, hope and peace. Jesus came as the Prince of Peace with tidings of comfort and joy. In being a planner, I get to enjoy the "Comfort & Joy" simply because I don't get caught up in the rush and hustle - I've been planning and preparing (especially this time around) for months. I'm basically done shopping, including the wrapping supplies, some host gifts and stocking stuffers (got to leave something for the week before...), I've planned and prepared for the get togethers, the family nights, the menus, the baking, the kids activities, etc. Even now, I'm plotting out what goes where in the house, the decorating will begin this Saturday - early due to the baby's expected arrival. Since this is all done, and it only required a little bit of thinking and planning (writing it down) over the past few months, now I can just enjoy the whole process, because the stress has been removed from it. I know what I want, what's best for my family - and don't have to surrender to the pressure from magazines, tv, others.... We can do all the little things that make the holidays special...

You know, carolling, visiting a shut in, watching A Christmas Carol, driving to see the lights, etc.

My favourite thing: everyday during the holidays I make a cup of tea and turn off all the other lights and sit by the tree, just to reflect on anything that the Lord brings to mind. Even if it's only for 10 minutes, it's the best.