overwhelmed

from the middle of november to the beginning of january is always a bit of a blur to me.

colin's birthday leads right into thanksgiving.
the day after thanksgiving is practically christmas now.
christmas production at church.
school christmas, excuse me, winter holiday, things.
one extended family christmas get-together.
visits to those before christmas that we won't be able to see at christmas.
our immediate family christmas together.
another extended family christmas get-together followed by another the next morning.
a few days to pick up and do laundry and do 'normal' things.
new year's eve and new year's day
which leads right into carter's birthday.
and finally back to school and 'normal' again.

at the moment, it seems like a bit much. it is overwhelming.
looking at the list reminds me of how intentional we have to be to really stop and look at what christmas is truly all about.
looking at the list reminds me of how God put so many things together to truly celebrate and i better not miss that opportunity in the middle of the busyness.

the joy of my youngest son and all that God put into him--his sweet spirit and energy and drive and humor...
taking time to remember all that there is to be thankful for.
the opportunity to serve in a church body and to reach out to others.
a wonderful school that does all kinds of things to encourage our kids in learning and growth.
family and friends that we love and that love us.
a chance for my family to share and give to each other.
A MOMENT TO STOP AND LOOK AT THAT ONE QUIET, UNASSUMING EVENING WHEN GOD ENTERED THE WORLD AS A BABY, KNOWING THAT HE WOULD DIE FOR EACH ONE OF OUR SINS BECAUSE HE LOVES US SO MUCH.
a fresh start of a new year and all the promise that it holds.
the joy of my oldest son and all that God put into him--his tender heart and his processess and humor...

an overwhelming, but incredible season of life.