Thursday, January 2, 2014

And a Happy New Year!!





HELLO FRIENDS!!!

Well, sadly, I have been away for a while- yet again.  Between Christmas, 3 birthdays, and the illnesses that winter bring with it, my time has been consumed!  

But, here I am- so, Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and, if it applies to you, Happy Birthday.

Now that we've got that all squared away, let's get down to business.

This is not your average New Years post.  First of all, it's not New Years- a day late and a dollar short.  But, also, I'm NOT making ANY resolutions.

Breathe, it's not because I think I'm perfect, or in no need of improvement- because, well, that couldn't be further from the truth.  

No, no, it's because I've chosen to look at things differently this year.  Instead of focusing on my faults and flaws (which can be ever so time-consuming), I have decided to enhance the good.

Sure, I will still set goals and work on improving my imperfect self, but that is not my focus.  This year, I am concentrating on the good.  Working on loving myself and those around me.

So, for this New Year, I am rewinding the clock.  Not too far, just a week. Back to Christmas.

WHAT?!  I know, I'm sure you've all had your fill of shopping and cooking and baked goods.  That's not what I mean.

I LOVE Christmastime!!  

Not because it brings with it my birthday, presents, and the yummiest treats.  Not even because of the elf on my shelf that insured the well manners of my young children for a WHOLE month.  No, not any of those.

I love the kind smiles, the patience, the generosity.  I love the spirit Christmas brings.  Everyone seems to be just a little bit nicer, a little more loving and kind.  It's beautiful!  I don't mind waiting in the ridiculous lines to buy my son that one last item, or driving a little slower to accommodate the extra friends and family on the road.  I love the constant urge to seek out those in need, to provide a wonderful day for those around us.

Ahhh, it really is a month of beauty!

So, why does it have to end?!  We acknowledge the birth of Christ and then WHAM, as quickly as the white wonderland was blown in, it flies off- leaving us with 11 months of ME ME ME!

Well, NOT this year!

My goal is to enhance the good- to keep that Christmastime love in my home all year.  

No, this is not an excuse to not take down my lights or leave up my Christmas tree, this is a chance to take that best part of ourselves that we reserve for the holidays and try to spread it through the rest of the year.  Notice the old lady behind you and hold open the door, be patient with the young mom slowly crossing the road in front of you (that's probably me and my zoo), smile at the cashier who is trying so hard to help you.  

With that being said, I have saved my Nativity Shoot to share with you this New Year, as a reminder of the wonderful gift of the holiday season.

May ALL your days be Merry and Bright!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

























I hope you enjoyed this trip down memory lane!

What qualities will you enhance this year?  

What is your favorite thing about Christmas?

Thank you for a wonderful year!  I look forward to another amazing year filled with shared memories and smiles!

For now, remember to enhance the good and have a wonderful day!

xoxo, 
LooWho