Sleigh Bells Ring

Ok, so it is not even December first - I'm not an overachiever, so much as a wait-til-the-mood-strikes kind of person. And this morning, it struck. With Thanksgiving passed, Black Friday behind us, and December just around the corner (tomorrow), I thought it best to bring Jude along on a long-standing family tradition.

It took about 30 minutes, but Jude and I got out the decorations from the attic, hung ornaments on the tree, and put up both of our strings of lights. Whew! All before 10am. Most people probably spend more time on this activity, but we're minimalists. I can't really keep track of more than one box of Christmas. Here's the best part: he has no idea what is going on here. He barely notices the twinkling lights, although the reindeer bells on the front door were a big hit.

Here is a picture of Jude, wondering what this could all be about. I am so excited for him! I am such a believer in the majesty and the miracle of the season. And childhood makes it all come alive. Can you hear Santa's sleigh on the roof? Of course we won't make a fire tonight, so He can come down the chimney. Have you been a good boy this year? One hundred million children fall asleep on the eve of Christmas with sugarplums dancing.

Not to mention 8 pound, 11 ounce baby Jesus in the manger, wise men following stars, and oxen a-lowing. There are miracles afoot. The story of the Christ-child, come to save the world with no room at the inn. And that boy went on to change the world.

Jude, my boy, you will not know what to make of any of this. But that is more of the beauty of Christmas. It is waiting for you, and by next year . . .