Still No Tree by Susan L.

So, the Christmas tree is still in a box in the basement. Last year it was up the first week of December. This year...well, it's been busy. Having my family Christmas this past weekend meant a bit of a rush so there's simply been no time. Never mind the fact that my living room was converted to a rather chaotic art studio with paints, brushes and varnish scattered all around. At least it's tidy now and the space in front of the window is ready for the tree to grace its position of honour--front and center. I made a paper mache nativity scene a couple years ago. This treasure is placed under the tree in lieu of presents. It represents what is truly our Greatest Gift. This fills the empty space to overflowing that was once chock full of presents when my children were younger. It's a bit of a milestone when Christmas becomes simpler and less frantic, when there isn't the copious amounts of food preparation, wrapping and running around like the proverbial headless chicken. This is a mixed blessing as most blessings are: a blend of loss and celebration. I have to acknowledge the years that have come and gone while being faced with the challenge of aging gracefully. A smile comes to my lips: I am aging into Grace. "Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord." Pet 1:2