I’m sitting here on the eve of Christmas Eve with a feverish baby/toddler sleeping on my chest in my in law’s basement. He’s been crying all morning but finally waved his white flag and settled into my chest for a nap. My cheek is wet with his sweat and my body can feel his weight that tells me he is sleeping hard.
The house is loud and FULL of people. And kids. So many kids. Not an ideal place for a sick baby. But, instead of feeling tired or frustrated, my heart is holding peace. Maybe it’s because after having 3 boys who are old enough to not need me every second anymore that I know “this too shall pass.” Maybe it’s because my heart holds the joy of Christmas this week. Maybe it’s because after a month of home repairs I am still finding so much pleasure in the simple blessings of our every day lives. Maybe it’s because I know that the footsteps and screams I’m hearing upstairs means precious cousin time is happening. Maybe it’s the heart wrenching stories I have heard lately of families losing multiple loved ones and dealing with unbearable heartbreak.
I suppose it’s a combination of all of the above. But, no matter the reason, my peace is coming from gratitude. I am thankful. So very very thankful. Thankful for the family that is so important to us that we travel with a sick babe. Family that loves us so much they’d rather we come with sick kids than not at all. Thankful that I have a baby to hold in my arms a little while longer. Thankful for soft chairs and cozy blankets and warm cups of coffee to help make this day a little more comfortable. Thankful for my baby’s cries because he’s strong enough to cry.
I hope that no matter how this holiday season finds you that you can find moments to be thankful for amidst the laughter, heartache, chaos, frustrations, and love.
