The calm after the storm.
Some of the Parker/Bassett crew.
This past weekend was our Parker/Bassett family Christmas. This storm seems to blow in and then leave too quickly. You may say, “that’s not a storm.” A couple definitions of a storm is a sudden commotion or a tumultuous outburst. This storm was a welcoming, exciting, and a long awaited one since we forgoed a huge gathering last year.
The weekend was filled with way too much food, a visit from Santa, the story of the birth of Jesus read by Nana, a hands-on retelling of Jesus’ birth by me joined by the littles, conversations, laughter, sports on tv, hot tub moments, and chats around the fire pit. My first book became available on Amazon, so we had a little extra reason to celebrate. Family time is my favorite time. Family time is my happy place.
Nana (my momma) reading Luke 2 with everyone. I love how the littles are listening intently.
Tonight I sit by the fire, the weather is cozy in the 50s, the dogs are running around, a deer is feeding across the pond, my man is beside me, Christmas music playing over the speakers, and all is good. Our once filled with family home is all calm with just the two of us. Yea, I know..that sounds great. And Yes, I am blessed.
Tears stream down and many emotions are overwhelming me as I reflect. Blended families, loved ones in heaven, best friend’s dad leaving us to be with Jesus, loved one’s health issues, people missing their loved ones, missing our loved ones, good news of jobs and new homes, curly head kids, chocolate covered strawberries, people sharing photos and messages of their purchased children’s book with me, wrapping paper on the floor while wrapping gifts…the emotions are all over the board. Sharing in the sorrows and joys of friends and family. Grateful for each moment. Yes, even in the downcast and hard moments, family time is my happy time.
Christmas time can bring about a variety of emotions depending on events that have occurred recently or over the past year or memories from the past. For me, I am grateful and take hold in the hope and joy of what is to come. This hope and joy that supersedes any situation can only come from the Lord Jesus Christ.
While waiting on Santa, I get to carry on the tradition my late mother-in-love did each Christmas Eve…retell the story of Jesus’s birth with visuals.
Because God sent His Son, born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, died for our sins, defeated death by rising from the dead, and descended into heaven…we can have unexplainable joy and hope.
Christmas time may be about gathering with family, opening gifts, eating way too much food, and all the activities that go along with this season, but it’s truly so much more. I pray that you will take the time to read Luke chapter two (Click here to read) and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. Find true joy and hope in Jesus Christ. Be comforted in knowing that no matter the situation or emotion that arises can be followed up and filled with hope and joy.
When you accept Christ as your personal Savior, you will be a part of His family, my family. And one glorious day…that family time will definitely be my favorite time. Heaven will be my happy place.
Now that the sudden commotion of family, the tumultuous outburst of many conversations and the running and laughter of children have departed, it is time to be still and reflect on these treasured moments. Don’t tell anyone, but I’m already ready for more. Bring on the storm.
Blessings to you and yours,
Stephanie
To purchase my first book, The Right Road, PLEASE click here
We love Santa. We love Jesus more!