Christmas continues

As if getting the call the final day before Christmas vacation that school was cancelled due to weather wasn’t sweet enough, the complete surprise of this morning’s phone call certainly was!  Yup, we were all set (well begrudingly so, if I’m being honest) to get back into the swing of things today.  In fact, I was already up and ready and was just about to wake my precious girl to feed her before rousing Calder and hitting the road.  I couldn’t believe it, but certainly embraced it to the fullest!

I promptly climbed back into my pjs and snuggled in for a “nap” at 6:30 am!  Hey, gotta take it when you can, especially since both kiddos don’t necessarily nap at the same time most days.  We lounged around for the most part after enjoying a hearty breakfast.   We played a lot – and Mom learned that making domino trains isn’t the brightest idea for she and Calder just yet.  Seneca slept for nearly 3 hours this morning, which allowed for lots of singing and hide-and-seek.

Of course, everyone is wondering if the back roads are any better and while I’ll admit that I wouldn’t complain if break was extended yet again…I know there will come a time (ahem, June!) when I will wish otherwise.  For now, I’ve enjoyed the day and may have achieved a successful decent bedtime for a certainly princess…though only time will tell!

Best Shot Monday ~ Wonder

What a difference a year makes!  From the wary glances shot around the room to the less-than-thrilled attempts at pulling out tissue paper and crinkling the festive wrappings we now have a very intent toddler.  His eagerness and interest are still thoughtful as they have not yet turned into the frenzied tearing and thankless playing that I fear may be lurking somewhere, waiting to emerge at the next birthday or holiday.

From across the room I can only image what words of encouragement Daddy’s whispering to him as he searches for the perfect place to begin the unveiling.  Perhaps he too senses my unspoken desire and is offering sentiments that instill thoughtfulness, gratitude and patience. 

Calder and Dad

Slowly, he pulls back the wrappings and shares the joy with those who found joy in giving.  This was the manner in which he opened most of his gifts.

Presents

I’m not sure what he was watching here.  It may have been wrestling cousins or uncles or crisp white snow piling up outside the patio door.  Whatever it was, I adore his expression.  The innocence and excitement, the near disbelief that he gets to have this much fun.  That he is surrounded by so much love, generosity, and happiness. 

When life gets to be too much to handle and the weight of responsibility rests heavily upon my shoulders, I pray that this image of freedom and joy will help me find my center.  And for you, my precious boy, I long for your wonder to grow as you continue to learn about the true meaning of Christmas and one day accept for yourself, the greatest gift ever given! 

Christmas Wonder

This is my best shot today.  To see what is brightening the lives of others this week, head on over to Tracey’s.