Thursday, November 30, 2006

It's beginning to look a lot like...



Christmas!! The tree is up, the mantle is (almost) decorated, and the weather is... well, it's starting to look like we may have some real "winter weather" as a cold front moves in overnight!
The kids and I were sitting on the floor in the kitchen today (don't ask) and as I looked up I saw this. Just an ordinary little view from an ordinary little window, but the change astounded me. The last time I sat in the same spot and looked up, those very same trees were lush with green. And now they are stark, barren and quite a beautiful symbol of winter, I think. How quickly the days pass. How my sweet children have grown in just the time it took for the leaves to fall from the trees. How quickly our lives pass. Cherish the moments this holiday season. Don't get so caught up in the hustle, bustle and stress of shopping that you do not take the time to bend down over a tiny manger and tell the wonderous story of old to a little one.
I'm taking my own advice this year. It's so tempting just to want this particular Christmas to be over with, done with since Andy is away from us. Things in our family aren't the same this year, but the beautiful meaning and promise of the season hasn't changed. The sweet message of hope rings truer than ever. I'm going to enjoy it, soak it up, and revel in the magic that is Christmas.
Happy Thursday and
Much Love,

11 comments:

Anonymous said...

Such a beautiful post! Your tree is gorgeous and your little ones are blessed to have a mommy who emphasizes what is truly important in this life! May God bless you!

I'm enjoying your blog---got it from Kelly at A Spacious place. I'm hoping to have time to read more today!

Kim

Anonymous said...

Your tree looks great! It is cold here today too, high of 20. Burr!

Great perspective on the holidays, even though it won't be a normal one for you.

Anonymous said...

What a beautiful tree! I loved your post about what is really important this season.

God bless you and yours this Christmas...

Kelly said...

I have other friends with husbands overseas during this season. You and your families will be in my prayers. I am deeply grateful for the sacrifice that you all make to keep our country safe!

Anonymous said...

What a beautiful and sweet post.

Thanks for the reminder of what is really important.

I hope you have a good weekend!

~Betty~

Amy said...

Lovely tree!

Cherish the Home said...

Your tree looks gorgeous!

And what a great attitude you have. (o:

Blessings,
~Mrs.B

Susan P. said...

Not only do you have a beautiful tree but you also have a beautiful attitude! I wanted to let you know that many times it's the soldiers who get all the thanks for their sacrifices, but I also want to remember to THANK YOU and your babies for yours. God bless.

Tammy said...

Wow...Jennifer. Beautiful...

I remember when my husband was on deployment when we were newlyweds and it was the Christmas season. I was not "into" it very much at all...my mom flew over to be with me (no children yet). But you are so right to focus on the real meaning, no matter what our circumstances.
And to enjoy these fleeting days!
WOnderful post, Jennifer!

The Tiquehunters Wife said...

I was very touched by your beautiful post! I'll be keeping you and your family in my prayers. (Your tree is just lovely and so is your home!)

Anonymous said...

Such a beautiful post! Your tree is gorgeous and your little ones are blessed to have a mommy who emphasizes what is truly important
___________________
Julie
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