In the end, when all the hunting and gathering was done, love and my Christmas spirit arrived and I had a really nice time hosting. I think I just need to allow my pre-holiday frustrations to seep out sometimes, kind of like letting the air out of an overly full balloon.
On Christmas Eve my sister read a poem with a lovely message. It seemed especially poignant this year:
What is Christmas?
It is tenderness of the past,
courage for the future.
It is a fervent wish that every cup may overflow
with blessings rich and eternal,
and that every path may lead to peace.
~ Agnes Pharo
I hope that this year, you felt some blessings eternal too.
xo,
Louise