It’s the end of December, and I already miss Christmas. We’ve put away all the decorations, the nativity, the tree, the lights, the wrapping, everything. The house is cleaned up and back to normal. I suppose I should feel a sense of accomplishment as I resolve to begin the new year with a fresh perspective. Still, I admit there is a bit of reluctance hanging in the balance. 

I miss the festivities of Christmas and the beauty of the season. I miss the sparkle of the lights on the tree and my mantle. I miss the nativity reminding me daily of the Christmas story I celebrate. And yet I know that to preserve the wonder, everything has to be packed away for a year. I know eleven months of waiting evokes the unmistakable joy when everything is unwrapped the day after Thanksgiving. 

And while I wait, I will stir up those beautiful memories and stare at my cherished photographs. I will reflect on the wonder of Christmas and share gratitude for the Christmas story that isn’t just for December. 

So, that’s it! It’s a wrap for Christmas 2021. Here’s to holding onto the joy of this past season as we count down the last of December and look forward to 2022!