Year of Less

I am, as you read, wrapping the last of the Christmas presents, my tree is lit and Bing is serenading me with “The Holly and the Ivy”. And while my mug is full of soothing camomile tea, there is part of me that wishes it was hot apple cider – yet another item which suddenly seems like a integral part of Christmas.

Earlier today, as I passed the Christmas Crackers that were 50% off at John Lewis I once again asked myself “what is one year without Christmas Crackers?” And I think about how we have chosen “less” this year. Though it has not been easy, it seems meaningless without people to share it with.

But there are people who don’t choose less but instead, it is simply the life they live. Every day. Every year. I happy to announce that Jakob has hit his Christmas Angel Tree Goal of $1000. Not because of my efforts however, but a generous donor. Please read about it here, and give exponentially.

Note that this generous donor first calls us to step up to the plate and give to those who are trying to get over the halfway mark. Please give. Please please please give.

There is so much to ponder in this year of less. Children who are without and children, like my own, who have so much.

We went and saw Santa Clause today. As we talked about it, Jakob was excited and ready to place his requests and show Santa his Christmas socks. But of course, when we got there, he was less than impressed and only with some coaxing did he finally go and talk to him. But you could see the magic in his eyes. This is the first year that I think Jakob “gets” Santa. I can tell they have been talking about it at school and he has, with child-like wonder, been anticipating Christmas Eve when Father Christmas comes and brings him presents.

But here is what surprised me about our little visit to Santa. While Jakob LOVES cars, trains and all other things with wheels he ask Santa for a teddy bear. A brown teddy bear. I am not sure where he got this idea from but his gentle spirit makes this momma proud. I know Santa will pull through on this one- let the magic begin….