Me & Mary

This Christmas season hasn't gone exactly as planned.

Other than a few last (last) minute wrappings, all presents were purchased and decorated with care. Food was planned, lights were up, tree was trimmed, visiting & traveling schedules were laid out, all was excitedly anticipated.

I could go on and on about the things that aren't perfect for tomorrow because of this, that, and the other thing.

In fact, I want to because in some way it will make me feel better about the fact that my house is a true disaster -in every sense of the word; they'll be no special Christmas breakfast (unless you count Pillsbury cinnamon rolls) and the fact that we're dangerously low again on clean clothes. Oh, and did I mention that Santa has no cookies for his midnight stop? None. Not a single morsel.

But let me just say this.

None of this really matters.

Really, it doesn't.

Steve and the kids are tucked in bed. We are safe. We are together. We are (hopefully) getting healthier by the day. What is Christmas if not a time to reflect on the humanity of our circumstances and the joy we find in the company of our loved ones? To appreciate selflessness, sacrifice, and the excitement of life through a child's eyes? To be mindful of all we've been given...much of it undeserved?

One of the most beautiful pieces of the Christmas story is that there was nothing normal about the circumstances surrounding Jesus' birth. I don't believe it was quiet and serene like all the pictures depict. He was born in a stable for crying out loud. At a time when men were never a part of the birthing experience, it was his non-biological father who stood beside Mary and ushered him into the world.

If it can happen to a bunch of nobodies 200 years ago and still reflect God's hand, it's comforting to know that I'm not the only one with circumstances that've gone astray.

Though, it doesn't mean I'll stop making my plans.....   :)

We wish you a peaceful night and beautiful Christmas holiday with the ones you love.