As we gear up for a week (or more) of the hustle and bustle that accompanies the holiday season, may you find time to enjoy the blessings this time of year offers
The tree is decorated and the garland hung; carolers are out spreading Christmas cheer, while churches are preparing for their holiday festivities and families are packing for travels abroad.
It’s a hectic time of year, and one — for my family, at least — that’s marked with as much hustle and bustle and celebration and cheer.
I, like so many, will be hitting the highways this holiday season, bouncing back and forth for quick visits with my parents, grandparents and in-laws.
I often wonder whether or not I should consider it a blessing that they all live within about 30 minutes of each other, since I enjoy the time I have with each of them, but often feel like I’m on the clock and like I always have somewhere else to go.
In the seemingly brief moments of rest during the week between Christmas and New Year’s, I’ll do my best to catch up on the latest news from my siblings, share a few holiday treats with friends and generally enjoy the spirit of the season.
As many will, I’ll go to church, exchange gifts and eat more than I’ll care to admit once it’s all said and done.
Despite all the traveling and constant commotion, I look forward to the brief vacation as it’s an increasingly rare occasion that my entire family is together in one place.
I’ve learned, more so in recent years, that while giving gifts is a holiday tradition that long out-dates any my family has, their presence should be present enough. And, for me, it is.
I hope for each of you safe travels and the warmest well wishes this holiday season.
Where ever you are and however you spend your time, I hope you’ll find a way to escape, if only for a short while, all of the frenzy that often pops up this time of year and be reminded of all that makes the holidays special to you and your family.
Jonathan E. Coleman
Editor