Next year

Just a few days ago I was stringing garland and white lights across my mantle and hanging gold jewel-adorned ornaments on my tree. I blinked and suddenly found myself at the mall, a mere seven days before Christmas, being herded through stores and down aisles, waiting in lines so long I made friends with the people around me. The most wonderful time of the year zips by in a flash, and at every holiday conclusion I vow to be more prepared, more organized and more frugal next year.

Well, it's "last year's next year" and here I am immersed in that rushed hustle and bustle...keeping track of all things purchased, attempting to please all but spoil none. Grab good deals, spend as little as possible without neglecting a friend, teacher or another appreciated soul who deserves a Christmas surprise. Cards and goodies, parties and Santa. Advent calenders (I have four this year--and yet, we have already hit the 24th on two--my kids have issues with patience...), outside lights with disconnected strands which are unable to coordinate and shine at once. Decadent chocolates and rich gooey desserts that tempt and tease during a month where "sensible eating" is a phrase uttered only in jest.

This is Christmas. It is a time for nonsensical, sleep-deprived, sugar loaded over extension! But tucked within the marathon shopping expeditions, endless child wish lists, counting dollars, balancing the loot, planning parties, and stress headaches, are those little twinges of "good cheer" that only the merriest of holidays can offer.

"She is going to LOVE this!"

"He is going to be SO surprised!"


Christmas carols, smells of cinnamon, anxious anticipation and unparalleled excitement from child, teen and adult alike. Kaleidoscopes of light, a tree I am IN LOVE with, Christmas cards boasting beautiful smiles of long time friends and beloved relatives. Wide eyes questioning each newly wrapped gift that finds its way under the tree, time with loved ones, dressy parties and Christmas stories. Gifts of service, my kindness tree, and of course, countless reminders of the Savior and a celebration of His birth, His life, and His ultimate sacrifice for us.

Christmas is all of this. The crazy and the sublime mixed together in a holiday hodge podge that never changes. As much as I'd like to think next year will be different, it won't. And that's ok, because I'll love it all the same!