Friday, November 16, 2007

The Holidays

The holidays are upon us and with the busyness of the season I will not be posting as often. I am presently busy with Nanowrimo, the yearly competition that encourages writers of all genres to focus on writing, get out of the box and just write for thirty days. It has helped me this year. I wasn’t brave enough to join last year but this year I am enjoying writing not for the prize but just the writing itself. What a joy it is to put words on the screen and think that one day soon the manuscript will be finished.

With the holidays coming we often get bogged down in expectations, both our own and others. Take time this year to change your routine, maybe add a tradition that calls for slowing down and spending time together. Spend some time on your own contemplating those things that you truly should be thankful for. Make your Christmas list differently this year. Add things that take thought and consideration. We always ask people what they want for Christmas, but what if we thought about those we are buying gifts for? What would they really like to have? What brings them joy? Can you imagine the smile that will light up their face when they open your gift? When you fill out your Thanksgiving and Christmas cards include a memory of the person you are writing to. Yes, it will take time but it will be worth it.

We usually take this time of year and fill it to the brim with things; gatherings, decorating, baking, shopping, etc. etc. ETC! How much room do we leave to truly celebrate? Let’s give the Lord a gift this year. Sacrifice something you’ve always done and spend that time praising God. Make a family journal and keep it in a conspicuous place where family members can stop and write down their thoughts. If they aren’t enthused make a game or contest of it. The one who posts the most thoughts or the one with the most thoughtful post will win a prize.

When the holidays are over let me know what you did differently and how it was received. God bless!! And Happy Thanksgiving!!

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