Simplicity

I needed a change of scenery, so I am working from Barnes and Noble for a few hours. It’s interesting. Watching people come and go. Hearing bits and pieces of conversations as you sit and work. I was struck by one conversation in particular.
A young woman in her early twenties came in with her friend. They were chatting about this and that and then they started talking about Christmas shopping. “…he bought her a Coach purse…we got him a Touch iPod….” The conversation continued on and many name brands and expensive items were brought up.

I, too, have been in the midst of my shopping, mainly online, and have gotten caught up in, “is it enough?”

The best present we can give others, and most especially give Christ, is our “presence” this holiday season. It’s all about relationships and love. Spending time with the ones we love. Simplicity. Preparing a wonderful meal, baking those special cookies and pies you never have time to make, being with each other.

What about playing games? My oldest son loves board games, but we never seem to take the time to play. I bought a great puzzle for our family. In the early days of my marriage, we would always have a puzzle out on the table and would work on it whenever we had a few minutes. I want to get back to those simple things.

Have you kept the “Reason for the Season” alive in your preparations for the holiday?

Today I Am Thankful For:

1. A change of scenery
2. Ornaments
3. Poinsettias
4. the smell of fresh, brewed coffee
5. old, warm, worn shirts