So Many Moments

Ahhh... it feels nice to take a breath. The month of December is, by tradition, a busy one. All of the wrapping and giving, the cooking and baking, the planning and gathering, the decorating and general merry making has filled our days around here. The past week has been overflowing with extraordinary and beautiful moments. I am savoring this time now - this time to slow down and see, to feel and experience these magical days.

Part of what I love about this time of year is how everyone is given license to give a little more, to open up a little more, there is an excuse to soften. We were out on a neighborhood jaunt yesterday because it was 80 degrees and sunny. There was a little girl of about six on a perfect new bike with hot pink training wheels. She waved at us and I told her I loved her bike, and asked if it was new, she said yes. As we passed her parents they were grinning from ear to ear and wished us a Merry Christmas. People really are jolly during this week in December, aren't they?

Rylie has had wonderful fun this year tearing all of the wrapping from her presents. That is still certainly the best part for her. With her advent bounty, she has opened a gift every day this month. I wonder what she will think come January. She seems to be growing in front of our eyes. She sprouts hair overnight, I think, and she was chasing her four-year-old cousin around this afternoon, intent on learning to run.

As much fun and full these last few days have been, I am looking forward to the quiet moments that are part of the week in between Christmas and New Year's. The world seems to be at least half shut down, definitely not at full operating capacity. Ryan is off work, and for a few days, we do not have plans. I am anxious to resume knitting this sweater for Rylie, to do a bit of reading, and to take it slow. You know you've been busy when you look forward to doing the laundry. But for now I am sitting, remembering all of the season's wonderful moments, and feeling incredibly blessed.