preparations part 1

I've been falling a bit behind in my blogging in this busy season, so here is the first of a few short posts to reflect on life. To reflect on the mystery of advent...a quiet fog, seeping into the cracks and crevices of life...not always tangible, but a persistent hope that always makes itself known...often when you least expect it and most need it.

An unofficial team gathering prompted me to unpack the Christmas baubles that I had tucked away from last year. We decided to celebrate Thanksgiving together on the last day of November and I wanted the house to be festive.

I collect nativity scenes because there is something about them that I just can't resist. Maybe it's the details that make each one unique. The reminders they offer of countries and cultures that I have visited. Or maybe it is the subtlety of each peaceful scene that calls me to find peaceful moments in my own life. Many that I have collected over the years are packed away in boxes at my parent's house. But I keep a few favorite ones with me and they were the first to be put out this year. A few touches of garland, bows, candles, poinsettias and one string of lights (I ran out of steam) was a small way to begin to welcome advent.

Our evening feast was a delicious time together and we talked about what we were thankful for. It was a great way to share some of my cultural traditions with friends and reflect on how blessed we are each and every day.

Although it was a busy and tiring weekend of hosting, it was really fun to share this meal with good friends and find renewed energy for the weeks ahead-when I needed it most!