The kids and I finally got our Christmas tree decorated tonight. And in this house, the tree gets to be in the office, of all places. It's a room at the front of the house with a big picture window...and lots of open space right at that window. The living room is too small and already crowded. So, I get to enjoy the twinkling lights and sparkling ornaments right from my desk for the next few weeks. Ours is not a fancy tree. It's a very eclectic mix of homemade ornaments, and stuff from my own childhood that my Mom gave me...and tons of little things that Dean and I have collected over the years. The topper is a beautiful angel doll that my mother-in-law made for us and gifted us with shortly after we were married...so she's pretty old, but just as beautiful as ever. I love our tree for all its homespun look.

There's just something very special about Christmas lights for me. I love all the beautifully decorated houses. I love the lights on my tree. They fill me with vague but very warm memories and an ever-present sense of hope. I hope my own children will someday feel those same warm memories and hope at the sight of wintery colorful twinkling lights.

I worked out today...did some weights and resistance and climbed stairs until I dropped. I was a bit disappointed that I didn't get as far "up" the stairs as I wanted...only eleven stories, so to speak. But that gives me a good solid goal for tomorrow...to beat eleven...to do at least one flight more each day. I can do that!

It's late now and I'm awfully tired, so I'm going to call it a night.

For You are my hope, O Lord God; You are my trust from my youth.
- Psalm 71:5

-- Judy