You know what I’m doing today?

Decorating for Christmas.

Yes, on November 15, I’m decking these halls.

Knowing, months ago, that my kids were coming in for Thanksgiving week, and that we’d be celebrating our Christmas with them at the same time, I knew I’d need to decorate much earlier than I typically do. And months ago I wasn’t too excited about the prospect of it. I like to celebrate Thanksgiving and give it its due before the tree goes up.

However, now?

I need a little Christmas, right this very minute.

I need some twinkle lights, holiday tunes and the smell of baking deliciousness.

I need some gingerbread-house-building, s’mores around the firepit, and snuggling while Bing and Rosemary sing about counting your blessings.

I need the laughter and warmth of my big children and the sparkly-eyed innocence of my little children.

In the midst of the unpredictable twists and turns, ups and downs, of life, it’s lovely to embrace the peace and goodwill of this coming season, no matter what time of the year it is. It’s a way of life that we are meant to live, whether the tree inside is covered with ornaments, or the tree outside is covered in the new green of spring. A living outside ourselves with our hearts pounding to the beat of Another’s drum.

Yes, I need a little Christmas, right this very minute.

I need a little Christmas now.

And on Thanksgiving? I’ll be OH SO THANKFUL for it.

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” Luke 2:14 KJV