If I’m being honest, I set my expectations pretty low this holiday season. It’s been a hard year for everyone, our country is divided, covid-19 cases are reportedly rising, our state is still pretty shut down, gatherings are prohibited, most churches are closed and many of the activities that I thought made the holiday season special were cancelled.
But then one day my middle daughter, London, came bursting into the room with this infectious joyful Christmas spirit that couldn’t be contained. She was absolutely beaming, and her excitement was uncontrollable. Everyone had to dress in “Christmas clothes”, every surface in the house needed to be decorated (there were Christmas stickers being slapped everywhere in the house) and only Christmas songs could be listened to. London’s Christmas spirit was a light in what felt like a pretty dark season… and her light spread throughout our family and home and changed my heart.
This holiday season my children have given me the gift of their joyful wonder of the world. It’s the way they look at the snow falling… the way they believe in the magic of the season… their excitement for the smallest things… Their perspective and view on life has reminded me of what really matters and who really matters. This holiday season has looked pretty different in a lot of ways… but I wouldn’t change a thing. This will truly be a Christmas to remember.
From our family to yours, we wish you a Merry Christmas…. may you have child-like faith, and be filled with wonder, anticipation… and most importantly… hope.
Photos by the incredible Mary Pastuh
