Confessions of a Christmas-aholic

In years past, my tree is up before Thanksgiving (yay artificial trees!), I listen to Christmas from Labor Day to Epiphany, my house is decorated a little bit at a time until Christmas Day. I buy Christmas gifts from October to about mid December so I don't have to make a mad dash. 

This Christmas doesn't feel like Christmas at all. I realized today that we are a week and a half away from the day itself. I have no tree. No nativity sets out; I have 12, give or take. The new matching stockings are in the car, waiting to go to the monogrammer. I just started Christmas music about a month ago. My Advent wreath is in the closet. My only decoration is the wreath on my front door. 

I tell myself that illness and injury have prevented it. That's partially true. But, in reality, it just hasn't been something I've wanted to do this year. There are plenty of reasons, not the least of which is postponing the big family gatherings. The first Christmas where I won't see my sister. The first Christmas since my grandmother passed away. The first Christmas with so many changes that I can't list here. All of these have affected my mood in a less than positive way. 

But tonight, I found a book, Christmas Stories for Bedtime, at the grocery store. It is meant for kids 5-8 but my 3 year old really enjoyed it. All of the book is sections of the birth narrative with prayers and songs. As I read to C (and B) about Gabriel's visit to Mary, I was reminded that Christmas ISN'T about the decorations, the music, the gifts, or even our families. It IS about the birth of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. 

(FYI, that's the tree at church!) ;)

I am in the Christmas spirit once more. Not the commercial trappings of a Santa-driven holiday, but the real deal. The gift that changed the world. Will I still go buy gifts for those on my list? Yes, even if it means the mall on Christmas Eve! Will I still listen to Christmas music? Absolutely, and sing along! But I will also return to my Advent devotionals of years past that keep me focused AND I will do the same for my kids. Merry Christmas, y'all!