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A Penny For Your Thoughts- Holiday Focus

I think it's assumed when I stop blogging I am too busy, however lately I do not feel that has been keeping me from here.  I have lovely things to say about the holidays and how I have been swept up in them in different ways this year, but mostly I have been spending time with friends, family and my dear sweet husband.  As always, I am counting my blessings and remembering how much I have to be grateful for, but even more so I am realizing that I literally want for nothing.  When people ask what I want for Christmas, there is nothing I need.  Sure I have a list, but if I got nothing on it, I would be fine.  How amazingly blessed am I?  It makes me want to give away a bunch of my stuff, which to some may sound awful, but to me makes me feel like God has given me more than I could have ever imagined :)

I love the holidays for the old school reasons.  Being around family and friends, sharing meals and conversation, carols celebrating Jesus, baking, hand written cards and beautiful decorations throughout homes.  I love good quality time during this time of year, it just feels so special :)  I pray that every person that reads these words seeks out something simple to celebrate the holidays.  Turn off your television and be present with the people you love.  Get to know them better, and make sure to tell them how much you love them.  God only gave us so much time together and so many holiday seasons to celebrate.  Do not waste one minute of this life :)  Dive in head first this holiday season and celebrate having people in your life.  Even if all you get for Christmas is a new toothbrush, focus on the people around you, and you will feel blessed.

You might ask where this is coming from, and I guess it is just that I hear SO many ungrateful people, or see people who are trying to buy each other's love or complain openly about how much they dislike their families.  I want to yell at them and shake them and tell them that being together should be what they are looking forward to!  That is what the holidays are about.  Gifts are lovely when done in the right spirit, and I absolutely love giving them, so don't get me wrong.  I just see so many people who complain their way through the holidays, and I guess it has damaged my heart a little.  If you are miserable, do not rob others of their joy. 

Thanks for reading through my thought process!  I guess I just want to preserve the innocence and magic of the holiday season.  My intention is just to push you to focus on what's important and let the rest go this season.  If you want quality time and a hearty meal, my door is genuinely always open.  Happy Holidays :)
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