It is snowing as I write. I am cosy in my little house and will be decorating for the holidays soon. This time of year is so wondrous and magical. I love watching and waiting that is Advent. I love the darkness, the anticipation, the peace and excitement. I love the candles, the music, the food, the cold, the togetherness. And yet, I am challenged at this time. I am challenged to not over-book, over-promise and over-extend…

It is the beginning of December, it all seems possible: the Christmas cards, the cookies, the dinners, the gatherings, the traditions. And I know, that in the blink of an eye, the turn of the head, it will be mid December and then an all to quickly, it will be Christmas. Ack! All I want is to hold onto the moment; the flickering candle, the sweet family dinner, the children’s stories and laughter. All I want is for the wonder and magic to soak deeply into my skin and live in my heart all day, everyday. All I want…

But, the days seep into nights and into more days. The children argue, the dinner is box mac-n-cheese and I am still stress purchasing presents on December 24.

Writing this now and knowing, accepting that I can’t freeze time or pour sugar on real life, I realize that this is the point. The wonder and magic of the days exist because it isn’t forever and we can’t make them perfect. This time is fragile and fleeting and that, is what makes it so breathtakingly beautiful.

So, enjoy this Advent, as you prepare and zip around. Take a moment to absorb the sweet darkness, light your candles and gather your friends and family. If you are lucky, you will shed the guilt, say no a few times and joyously eat your box dinner with gusto knowing that it is all part of the magic and wonder.