I wish I had a river.

1. peace_20509, 2. And then there were hearts...., 3. i heart my christmas tree, 4. Christmas Heart

It's been a hectic work week and I'm now just catching up on some reading. I have come across so many blogs that have touched my heart to the very core. I have been stressed out this entire week about this upcoming weekend. My family will be over to celebrate tomorrow and I started to wig out about it. I planned for a chill, easy going Christmas afternoon with some simple nibbles. I didn't want to worry about a huge formal dinner. But it's funny how easy turns into stress, not to mention the millions of other things on my to-do list.
So today, I took an early lunch and did my grocery shopping. I had to honk at some one who came so close to hitting my tail end, I then rushed through the supermarket with a list in one hand, cell phone in the other to keep track of time. I pulled up with a cart full after only 20 mins feeling accomplished. As I stood there, a women in from of me asked about a ham that came up full price when it should of been half. This caused a huge hassle among the people behind me. They huffed and grumbled and got loud. It was ridiculous and I thought, I'm not going to allow myself to get like that. I smiled at the cashier with empathy because I have been in his shoes. Working retail has to be the hardest job during the holidays. So be patient folks. Everyone is in a rush right now.
I came back to read this post from Rhi. It sadden me but also made me realize what Christmas is truly about. My mind started to ease about my family gathering tomorrow. So my house isn't perfect and I got store bought cream puffs instead of baking. Let it go.
And this blog. It brought tears to my eyes about her beloved furry friend, Merlin. I've been snuggling my old friend a lot more this past week.
So the combination of grumpy holiday shoppers and the heartache of losing loved ones has gotten to me....has made me realize it's not the perfect gift or glitz and glamour that make Christmas what it is. It's in our hearts and it doesn't cost one cent. Hug your loved ones a little tighter, make that kiss under the mistletoe last a little longer, laugh until eggnog spits out of your nose. Enjoy the true, simple meaning of Christmas this year.

Be safe everyone and Merry Christmas.
Tina