All Is Calm, All Is Bright

Our quaint 1950’s home is still. Around me, my favorite people, and dogs, sleep- all softly snoring, one coughing on occasion, the dogs cozied in close. 

Just a few hours earlier, it was loud, and silly, and bursting at the seams with life breathing fullness and content. My boys all singing, running, playing with the dogs in the rain, the warm December weather adding to the festive night. 

This Christmas season we are slowing down, breathing deeper, embracing our time together. 

At this time last year our family was not cheery. We were a wounded, scattered, deeply cracked unit, enduring challenges we had never anticipated, with a fear that saturated any hope. It was heavy, each one of us hunched over with burden. Stress sent my body into overdrive followed by shutdown. I had not spoken to my oldest son in close to three months. shellshocked. 

Our family has fought together in learning, growing, being both teachers and students- becoming stronger as individuals and as a team. Peter and I upped our marriage and parenting game-overhauled, in truth. We close this year in awe. We are in awe of our boys- in the energy and drive they put into overcoming unique challenges. In awe of one another- changing for the better, determined to honor our vows and covenant. In awe of fulfilled promises, answered prayers, grace, forgiveness. 

Our simple home- under construction on many fronts- is a beautifully sacred place. It’s the neighborhood hangout, a refuge for friends and family and all they bring. A fortress and sanctuary for hurting hearts and souls- the laughter, tears, screams, confessions, silent big hugs, cacophony of praise, worship, and celebration of all forms. 

The cards will be late this year, we won’t checkin with social media, our calls/texts will be answered with significant delay. Our home is open. Holidays are all kinds of stuff, but should not be spent alone. Food will be plenty, pajamas are the dress code, playing games a must. 

Merry. Bright.