We had the presents. We had the meals. We had the company. And we had the good news–2 new babies coming in 09.

Some unusual visitors came through our yard on Christmas Day. I managed to grab my camera and get one picture before the camera announced my memory card was full. That’s what happens when I don’t erase any pictures all summer and autumn. Here’s our visitors leaving.

We had a great time over the holidays. We made a big jig saw puzzle and enjoyed visiting the kids and grandkids. We had 22 here yesterday for the family dinner. Fun.

But I am ready to get back to work.

On Christmas Eve day I finally accepted that the story I was working on wasn’t working. It wasn’t simply a matter of pushing through resistance because the resistance wouldn’t go away. I expect my ‘muse’ tried yelling and when I wouldn’t listen, started yawning. Eventually, I stopped and went back to square one. I’m happy I did because the story I came up with is so much better. I’d tell you about it but it might take a few unexpected turns before it actually is finished (and published).

Which makes me think of things that make me unique as  a writer. (I suspect every writer has similiar traits)

•  I talk to voices inside my head.
• Some of the letters on my keyboard are worn off.
• There are food crumbs in my keyboard. (And coffee stains on the keys)
• I have favorite pens that no one is allowed to touch (especially the one from Harrod’s)
• I would rather stay home and write than go out (even for dinner)
• My idea of a perfect holiday is just me and my computer.
• I love the smell of books.
• A bookstore is one of my favorite places.
• I know several good on-line sites for used books. (In fact, I get special shipping rates).
• When I’m working I’m happy.

With that, I will confess that I am looking forward to Monday morning and getting back to work.

“Tis the season to remember the gift of the savior born in a manger, to think of all his birth meant. I especially like the words of ‘God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen.’

God rest ye merry, gentlemen, let nothing you dismay,
Remember Christ our Savior was born on Christmas Day;
To save us all from Satan’s power when we were gone astray.

Refrain

O tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy;
O tidings of comfort and joy.

You can listen to the music and read the whole song here:

http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/g/o/godrest.htm

This is a wonderful gift and certainly the cause of comfort and joy.

But I too often overlook the small things that bring comfort and joy. So for my own reminder I am going to list some of them.

1. The smell of soup simmering on the stove.

2. The smell of freshly baked bread.

3. A ‘window’ view of winter. (The rubber on the road reality of snow and ice and cold are not at all comforting.)

4. Good health.

5. Warm houses.

6. Good friends.

7. Family, especially grandchildren.

8. Flowers which seem to speak both comfort and joy to one’s soul.

9. A happy marriage.

10. Satisfying work. My writing is at times frustrating but if I view it from a dispassionate distance, it is a source of joy.

To turn the list back to the real meaning of the season, I am including a picture of one of my favorite creches. I bought this in Mexico one year while my sister and I were visiting my brother.

Enjoy the comfort and joy of the season.

(I’d love to hear what things bring you comfort and joy.)