Yesterday was the best day I have had in such a long time. It started with a trip to the city for a gift. Then meeting with friends. But the best part came that eve when the kids and I went to get our Christmas tree. On the way to the tree farm the conversation centered around the season and how it doesn’t really feel like Christmas because there is no snow. Etc. We went to find the tree and hiked through row after row finding one after another that just wasn’t quite right. Then there it was, hidden among other trees waiting for us. With great care we began the task of sawing our newfound prize from its secure hold in the ground. After much work we were able to shout the word that every timberman loves to shout. Timber. With barely a sound our christmas tree fell to the ground. After securing it to the tree cart we began our decent back down the slope to purchase our treasure. The tree man helpfully shook, tied and drilled the tree as my eldest went to fetch the vehicle. After much laughter and conversation we loaded our tree and ourselves into the van before heading to shop!

How fun and exciting it was to watch the kids flit around the store searching for the perfect gift for their siblings.
The excitement in their faces and the careful conversation as gifts too big to hide in the baskets were quietly whispered into my ear.

By now the snow had begun to cover the ground which added to the excitement and enhanced the Christmas spirit that had finally taken root.
Off we went to find a chinese buffet. The van was filled with laughter and conversation as we drove first one direction then the other in search of the food we craved. Finally finding the destination we had been searching for we tromped through the ever deepening snow to find our place in the
nearly deserted restaurant. Many many plates later we once again loaded into the van to begin the dangerous drive home. By now the roads had become icy and treacherous, so with caution I made the journey all the while listening to the loving conversations going on around me as the kids again
laughed, joked and enjoyed each other.

Today I reflect on the changes in my children, the openness of their love for one another and the joy and laughter that fills our home. For too many years joy was missing. We have found joy and it is a treasure beyond compare.