Friday, December 17, 2010

Christmas Spirit

I hate to say it but I'm not really in the "Christmas Spirit". I'm in more of a pensive mood this year. I cherish my family, the reality that God sent his son for me and others, and memories I have made over the years.
I'm not in the mood for parties and celebrations that really have nothing to do with Christmas is about. My efforts at decorating have been half-hearted, my baking minimal, and my other typical preparation sparse. However, I know this too shall pass. Maybe next Christmas will find me more in a celebratory type frame of mind.
I am super excited about my upcoming trip to the mountains. A little alarmed about how cold it's going to be but excited just the same. I may get to mark off something on my bucket list-waking up to snow on Christmas morning.

Merry Christmas!

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Serenity Prayer

God, grant us the...



Serenity to accept things we cannot change,


Courage to change the things we can, and the


Wisdom to know the difference


Patience for the things that take time


Appreciation for all that we have, and


Tolerance for those with different struggles


Freedom to live beyond the limitations of our past ways, the


Ability to feel your love for us and our love for each other and the


Strength to get up and try again even when we feel it is hopeless.

Life has been difficult this past year- I lost my Mom in February, my Dad went to an assisted living facility a few days later, my niece had a stillborn, the hubby is trying to make it in a new career, I feel as if certain individuals are trying to push me out of my father's life, my Dad seems to be slipping away, my childhood home will soon be sold, the contract for the program I work for was supposed to expire 12/31 but has been continued to 2/28, this thing called grief is sometimes overwhelming, I feel "told" what to do by many, and more.
I often times refer to the Serenity Prayer when leading group or counseling clients but rarely think about it applying to my own life but IT DOES. It's close to the whole idea of Letting Go and Letting GOD. I need lots of reminders to do just that.
All of that said, I am so glad I have my faith, my husband and my precious little girl. No matter what happens-GOD is in control.