"Wondrous is the strength of cheerfulness and its power of endurance--the cheerful man will do more in the same time, will do it better, will persevere in it longer, than the sad or sullen."
Thomas Carlyle, 1795-1881
December starts a tradition I've enjoyed for many years. In the early morning, after the Christmas lights have been put up, I sit in the darkness on the couch and enjoy the Christmas lights, meditating on the season and being thankful for Jesus. All the pictures were taken in the dark just as I see them.
In front of me is the little fake fireplace that gives off a cozy glow and warmth, It reminds me of the fireplace we had in MD and how much I enjoy a live fire. Our little fireplace may be fake, but it still gives me the feeling of home. I also thank God for heat to keep me warm during the cold winter months.
Just beside the fireplace is the table of angels and snowmen. My angel picture was taken in MD. Twenty angels glowed in the front yard of a home. I loved driving by it.
The wagon is filled with snowmen. With God's promise that He will wash us "whiter than snow," it focuses my mind on this wonderful gift from God.
My head then turns to the left where baby Jesus lies in his manger, with an angel watching over Him. I bought the red barn a few years ago, and love to put it in the scene. This is the reason for Christmas.
Next to that is the small Christmas tree. The lights remind me that Jesus is the Light of the world, a symbol of HOPE.
Then I see another angel with some deer and a picture of a snow scene. The snowy wilderness. Yes, I had to get deer in there somewhere.
When I look towards the dining room, I see another angel and snowman.
When I turn to the right there is a basket full or greenery and ornaments.
There's also a winter wooded scene in the dining room of my perfect cottage in the woods. Some dreams only remain dreams but the thought of them always makes me smile. There is a dog, deer, moose, bear and fox, tree house, bench and bridge over the little creek to complete my perfect home surrounded by wildlife.
Yes, this is a special time of day when all is quiet, and I can sit and enjoy this special season of the year. Some of the lights will remain through February to bring warmth and coziness to winter's cold mornings. It's one of my special times that only comes in the winter months. A little cheer each morning to start the day.
"Cheerfulness keeps up a kind of daylight in the mind and fills it with a steady and perpetual serenity."
Joseph Addison, 1672-1719
By His Grace . . .
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