Merry CHRISTmas and Happy New Year

So here we are, Christmas Eve Eve. I am always amazed at how quickly it comes and passes. I try to soak in every last ounce of this season from the day before Thanksgiving until the day after New Years. Being a traditionalist at heart, I strive for what Clark Griswald did, the perfect family Christmas. He didn't get his, and I haven't gotten mine, as of yet. This year brought many blessings our way, and one of them was getting to go on a business trip to Las Vegas during the first week in December. What a fantastic time we had. Everything was draped in seasonal decor, and the weather was just right. It was a great energizer before we were launched into all things Christmas. But even as I sit here wrapping those last few treasures for under the tree, while The Polar Express plays in the background, and the smell of my sugar cookie candle scents the house, I remind myself not to loose grasp of the Reason that is behind the pageantry of it all. The Reason that is bigger than the tree, the shopping lists, and the pants size that I will need to move into once this day is over. And I pray that Reason will be a constant mindset and focus throughout the new year. Wishing all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.