Christmas Time

I know, I know...I am a bit behind with my posts especially if I am just getting around to Christmas things.  Sorry to say, this won't be the last Christmas post.  I will try to get these out sooner next year. 

Every year in our house right after Thanksgiving, the Christmas season starts.  We listen to Christmas music and start Christmas crafts.  Some people (Tom) think we are crazy to start so early, but I just can't wait!  I love everything about Christmas.

This year I got to decorate the office where I work.  I loved every minute of it.  Everyones office door had a wreath hanging from it, a fresh Christmas tree scented the air, candles, pillows and pointsettas were put into place.  It was just as cheery at work as it was at home.  It felt so good to create a fun, loving environment for the ones I love at work just like I do for my family.   One of my friends asked me, "how do you think of all this?"  I had great role models in this way.

My dad had a wonderful spirit of hospitality.  He would go out of his way to make people feel special and welcome.  Every year at his work he would set out yummy goodies and play Christmas music.  If anyone ever mentioned that they liked something, he would go right out and get it.  When we would have friends over he would create a huge spread of the most wonderful food.  He always made more food than we could ever eat and then share with the neighbors.  He loved using his smoker to cook and roasting coffee beans for anyone who would love it.

I lost my dad to lung cancer a year and a half ago.  I thought last Christmas would be tough without him, but I missed him so much more this year.  As I thought about the joy I received from creating these beautiful spaces for those I love, I realized that without knowing it, I had learned this from my dad.  I am so grateful for this gift and I hope without realizing it, my kids are learning it too.  Christmas seems even more special.

xoxo,

Carol