We’re finally moved into our new house! We still have a bunch of boxes to unpack, but our kitchen and living areas are mostly done. We’ve had friends over for dinner and fires in the fireplace and pictures up on the walls. It’s starting to feel like home. Last night, we finally bought our tree: The only Christmas decoration in the house. (And perhaps the only one for this year.)
In some ways, it hasn’t felt like Christmas because of the move. No baking or decorating. No time for little events around town. But… We’ve been reading books with Bea and talking about the nativity. She found some of my old art history books and a few are specifically about the ancient icons of the nativity. It’s been amazing to look through these photographs of icons and mosaics of long ago. It’s reminded me of the true reason for Christmas: Not the decorations or even the traditions, but this time to stop, breathe, reflect, and adore a small baby.
By the time December 25 comes, we’ll be ready. Gifts will have been bought and wrapped and we’ll have a few more decorations up. In the meantime, I’m embracing this unusual holiday and taking the time to stop, sit by the fire, and remember the history and miracle that we are celebrating.
Linked with Kate Motaung’s Five Minute Friday, a time to write without editing.
Annie Rim 
In some ways you’ll probably enjoy this Christmas more than any other – because this all you have time for. May it be your most wonderful time of year!
Visiting here, for the first, from FMF. Glad to be your neighbor!! Merry Christmas, to you and yours!
~Bevy
I think you’re right – we’ll look back on this with fond memories. Thanks for stopping by!
Enjoy your new living space, and have a very Happy New Year. Christmas is about a tiny and very special child. This is Christ’s Mass after all.
Thank you! I totally agree: we need to remember the words, Christ’s mass and holy days.
What you are experiencing is the true spirit of Christmas. Enjoy your new home Annie.
Thanks, Colline! Merry Christmas!
This will be a Christmas you’ll remember. How wonderful you’ve chosen to practice and focus on the good: the stopping, breathing, reflecting on its meaning. Merry Christmas Annie!
Thank you, Debby! Merry Christmas to you, too!