internal Christmas

my heart is finally registering that Christmas is here. my outsides have been responding to the holidays, by way of parties and baking; shopping and decorating. however, my spirit and heart just haven't been into it.

today things are different. not sure what first led to this; perhaps the "santa like effects" of the day. my landlady Nina, left gifts for the 10Twelve at our house this morning (her lexi-like "sleigh" blocking my driveway out this morning, catching her in the act of an elf :) i came in to work to find a desk full of wrapped packages, cookies and cards on my desk from co-workers and interns.

the prize, and maybe the true reason for my inner Christmas cheer comes by way of a pink Christmas card found on my desk, made for me by Jacqueline. Jacqueline is an elementary student in our program, and possibly the most friendly child alive. She always calls me by name, asks me to move my office downstairs to their site, and gives the biggest and best hugs. i only see her every so often, but she always remembers me. she asked the site coordinator to make sure i got this very special card. it says "happy christmas! and happy new year!" (in all lowers- a girl after my own heart). it's snowing blue stars in her picture, with a snowman and two penguins wearing top hats with dancing canes. her name is signed in perfect cursive, surrounded by a blue cloud. it is, by far, the most special gift i have received this season. it was made with the creativity and love of a child with zero other resources to offer. she believes in happy christmas! happy new year! and thinks it's so great others should, too. it warms my heart more than the set of holiday ramekins from williams-sonoma i received last night ever could.

and so now it's Christmas internally. to make up for lost time, i'm having a party today with myself; with the love and joy that this magical season brings, and the hope and peace that Christ gives to our hearts. thank you Jacqueline, for reminding me that happy christmas! really is possible.