Prepare Ye

We are safely on the Other Side of the Mountains. We managed to travel in the perfect weather window. Today the pass is closed and snow and wind are making even travel about town very difficult. It doesn't matter now though, we are safely tucked inside our warm little house here on the other side of the state.


It's been years since we have seen this much snow at Christmastime, even on this side of the state. It's really something. Well over two feet of snow has fallen and the drifts are considerably higher. A winter wonderland is putting it mildly. It's beginning to feel a lot like the North Pole around here.


I spent the day preparing and organizing our home for the endless stream of wet shoes and clothes that will be traipsing in and out of doors over the next two weeks we are here. It is critical that an adequate and carefully planned system be in place. One cannot have wet snow boots, hats and mittens simply thrown about willy nilly. That level of anarchy will only lead to a cranky mother. Hooks have been installed, cubbies put together, and appropriate drying locations have been designated. Everyone has been initiated and schooled on Winter 101 and so hopefully there will not be any breakdowns in the system.


Preparations for Christmas are in full swing. I have been furtively wrapping whenever I have a spare moment to myself. Unwrapped presents are carefully hidden along with all of the little items that will go in their stockings. I can feel myself starting to get very excited to see their faces on Christmas morning. I confess that I do love to give my children Christmas gifts. We resist giving them many "extras" throughout the year, so this is my time to indulge them a little. It is truly a delight for me to try and think of that special something that will both surprise and thrill them Christmas morning. I think I have succeded this year.


On our drive over the mountains, I asked the boys what gifts they could bring to give everyone that weren't things. Little T was initially confused, but Big J caught my drift right away. He immediately rattled off things like, "patience", "kindness", "helpfulness". Little T, now understanding my meaning, added "generosity", "good attitude" and "being calm". I told them that those would be the very best gifts they could give me and that I would try to give the same gifts to them in return. So far, I think we are all doing pretty well.


I'm rambling.... the snow is having a quieting effect on me. It's hard not to just settle onto the couch under a blanket and plan on not moving until Christmas. But there are things to be done, snow forts to build, stories to be read, presents to wrap.... And, hopefully, somewhere in there will also be time to watch, listen, pray, and wonder at the amazing reality we celebrate at Christmastime.


For God so loved the world....


Merry Christmas... blessings to everyone, everywhere.