By Lois Hewitt

Thanksgiving is over and we are just a few (very) short weeks away from Christmas.  So I thought this would be a good time to go over my Christmas list. 

1.  No cards. I used to look forward to sending out Christmas cards but when I no longer could afford it, I stopped. They are expensive and stamps are expensive. A text message works fine for me.  I still love you all without Christmas cards.

2.  No gifts.  Again, this tradition died many years ago in our home.  Not only do we not spend money we don’t have, but there is no stress and no stores to visit. I still love you all without presents.

3.  Joy for the season. I have been called a grinch but I just love celebrating the birth of Jesus without all the man-made trappings. I’m not a grinch, I really love Christmas.  I still love you all this season and all year!

4.  I’m not a fan of Santa Claus.  I suppose if I had children or grandchildren I might but I don’t do anything Santa Claus. I still love you all without Santa.

I guess that about covers it. I know Christmas is different for us all. And every family has the right to celebrate their way. My way is minimalistic and it does not make me a hater of Christmas.

In reality, my true Christmas wish, as always, is for peace. World and personal.  I pray that all my friends and family experience God’s amazing peace in their lives. I pray for your safety in a crazy world. I pray for health and healing for you.  I pray for joy that overflows and is ever abundant.  I pray that you know Jesus deeply.

I have said this so many times, I am sure you are sick of it but these words are my life….things come and go (in my case, mostly go), value those around you instead. Tomorrow is never guaranteed. Enjoy your people today and every day you are together.

Traditions don’t have to be complex. I have many traditions that cost very little and they bring much comfort.  Don’t be afraid to try new traditions. It’s okay, just because it’s new doesn’t mean it’s bad and just because it’s old doesn’t mean it’s good. 

During this busy season, I pray that you can slow down enough to enjoy it. Too many times we rush to do this, rush to make that, and rush to clean that that we wish the holidays to be over.  My wish this year is for you to enjoy the season. If someone gets upset, they will get over it.  You deserve to enjoy it too!!  Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

The season is a double-edged sword. You have to have fun but that fun comes at a high cost.  Our daily lives are difficult enough without the added stress of making everything perfect. It doesn’t have to be perfect or even close. Embrace what you have, breathe and enjoy yourself.

My wish is to thank you all for your love and support throughout the year.  I love you all and pray to our perfect Savior that He covers your life with His perfect love.