Long Lost Christmas Cheer

This time of year seems to be so stressful on everyone. And I mean EVERYONE. They can't find the perfect gift. They need more money for MORE gifts. They have too many places to go, too many people they have to go see......

For some reason this year, I'm not stressed. This year hasn't been the greatest year of my life. But I made it through. And looking back, I have a lot to be thankful for.

I have two healthy, beautiful children who tell me they love me EVERY night. 
I have friends who have loved me and supported me no matter what.. even if it's been weeks or months since I've seen them.
I have a house to live in.
I have food to eat, clothes to wear.
I still can get up everyday and enjoy freedom.
I could go on and on............

So, shouldn't that be enough? Should the gifts really matter? Should a tree or decorations really matter??

I don't think so.. I think friends and family are enough. Hugs go a long way and in my opinion would be the only Christmas gift I need.

In honor of MY FAVORITE Christmas movie, here is my favorite part. Linus seems to be the only one who has it figured out...

Charlie Brown: I guess you were right, Linus. I shouldn't have picked this little tree. Everything I do turns into a disaster. I guess I really don't know what Christmas is all about.
Charlie Brown: Isn't there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?
Linus Van Pelt: Sure, Charlie Brown, I can tell you what Christmas is all about. 
Linus Van Pelt: Lights, please.
Linus Van Pelt: "And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, 'Fear not: for behold, I bring unto you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the City of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.' And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God, and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.'"
Linus Van Pelt: That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.

So this weekend, remember what really matters. Enjoy what you have with the people in your life and be thankful for that alone :) No, it may not be everything you want, it may not be perfect. But it's going to be ok.
When life gets you down do you wanna know what you've gotta do? Just keep swimming, swimming, swimming..... (Yes, I just inserted a Nemo quote. Sorry, I'm a dork :))

I hope you and yours have a very Merry Christmas! I plan on it....

PS.. I know this is a crafting/cooking blog, but that was on my mind this morning. I promise I have a new project coming soon ;) I'm thinking chalkboard painted wine bottles, picture frames made out of wooden plaques, candles made out of tea cups... so many possibilities!

Until next time.....