I rarely feel the size of our family quite as keenly as I do when sickness is afoot. This past month has given me plenty…
Getting ready to get ready
In our family, there’s something of a snowball effect of time that starts in September and rushes, pell nell, until the end of the year.…
Are you ready?
Advent begins Sunday. This Sunday. Which means that the ball is rolling (rapidly) towards Christmas. Are you ready?
Experiencing Advent
I need the weeks leading up to Christmas. I’m not talking about the tinsel and the trees and the endless parade of gift exchanges. I’m talking about Advent:…
The Christmas letter I didn’t write
Dear friends and family, I know, I know. Tradition has been broken. You have certain expectations from our crew this time of year, and this,…
The lights of Tihar and Christmas
Nepali Hindus just finished celebrating Tihar, also known as the Festival of Lights, and on the last days of the weeklong celebration they decorate their…
Why we DO celebrate Christmas
Some of you read the title to this post and thought, “Who DOESN’T celebrate Christmas?” Chances are, if that was your reaction, you’re not an…
Advent intentions
Last year’s Advent season wasn’t exactly stellar. I mean, it was fine enough. Cookies were baked. The tree was trimmed. Merry was made. And I…