It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas

In the midst of a global pandemic, there are plenty of dark points.  But when things are dark, it just makes those bright spots that much more hope-filled and uplifting.  With Christmas less than 2 weeks away, we have been filling our early December days with the hope and light of the Christmas season.  We have stocked up on Christmas books from the library, enjoyed Christmas movies on family movie night, worked hard on making Christmas gifts for others, played for hours with the Christmas train, and rejoiced in the fact that one of our favorite Christmas time activities (driving around to look at Christmas lights) is perfectly suited for pandemic life.

We went on the day after Thanksgiving to pick out our tree.  There is nothing like the smell of a fresh evergreen tree to make the house feel full of Christmas cheer.

The kids were very helpful in getting the tree and the house decorated for Christmas.  

We've enjoyed some Christmas "recitals" of Christmas songs on the piano.

We have also had recitals of non-Christmas songs by the newbie who hasn't quite advanced to playing Christmas songs yet.

There have been dress up days and festive activities at school...

filming of various Christmas programs for virtual viewing...

and the purchase of a new train Christmas decoration that has been the highlight of the season for one certain member of the household.

In the midst of dark times, I am so thankful for the light and the hope that the Christmas season brings.