Currently it’s -12 degrees.
It’s the kind of weather when you step outside and you breath in hard… your nose sticks together. And your toes tingle. And your cheeks burn.
And in Wyoming you still go outside. You just maybe put a coat on.
And…. there is snow out there. I like snow at Christmas time.
I’ve had the fire going for two days straight, right out my office door….and been writing Christmas cards (yes I still actually write on mine, even if it’s only a few words, I’ve promised myself I would always write.)
It caught up with me fast this year. The holidays. And they will be here and gone before I blink my eyes.
And even though this year has been a bit out of the ordinary, as there is so much sadness and so many people hurting around me… I wake up and remind myself everyday, this season is for the kids. And for kindness. And joy, wherever we can find it. And giving. I’m not going to lie and tell you that I smile all day every day. I don’t. I can’t. And I will never be ashamed of that. Feelings are feelings. It’s okay to feel. Finding joy is not always a simple task, sometimes it takes work….and I’m willing to do that. Especially now, at Christmas. I’m willing to help others find it too. Even if it’s just with a hug…. if that’s all I can give at the time.
We’ve engrossed ourselves in the holidays. As usual. Cookie baking. Tree cutting. Present wrapping. Stuff making. Card sending. I’ve always loved all of that.
This year, not because it was planned, but after a long day of hospital visits and doctors appointments, the little man and I decided to venture downtown to see the lights of the botanic gardens. We were able to get tickets and wander around the city for a little bit prior to grab something to eat and then wander back through the garden of lights.
It was amazing. That’s exactly what we said to each other over and over and over again. It was one of those nights that just made my heart explode with delight from the feeling around me. Pure delight.
My little man also was one of the main speakers at his Christmas program this year. He hates singing in front of people, but speaking… he loves that. (Not sure if that’s something I should be worried about!) I was able to contribute a little bit by taking photos of the all kids at school… it’s so fun to go spend some time on the playground with them. Just for fun. The concert was beautiful. I got a little emotional… there won’t be many more of these things while he is still little. And I know I will miss them.
And I went home singing.
I always do.
Repeat the sounding joy…
