Showing posts with label Christmas. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Christmas. Show all posts
Like many of you, our Christmas looked very different then we could have planned or imagined, including a trip to NYC for unexpected medical reasons. Sharing a reel where I explain a bit more- Please head on over to watch, comment, and like the reel HERE!
Whatever your Christmas looked like friends, if your story looks very different than you were imagining... my prayer for you is simple. May you feel specifically and tenderly embraced by peace, hope and most of all love.
You are seen... you are not forgotten on this Christmas Day.
You are seen... you are not forgotten on this Christmas Day.
1. Be Present.
I have said this before, but the best gift that you can give is yourself. Yes, the holiday seasons are busy for you with lots of parties, events, and gatherings but most likely your loved one who is fighting Lyme Disease is not able to attend all or any of these types of events. Many times they feel loneliness more than ever at the holiday season as they spend more time alone during these weeks then others as people are off having lots of fun. The best gift you can give is to schedule in a phone call, stop over for a visit, or skype with your friend during your busy and their lonely holiday season - what a beautiful gift this would be!
2. Offer monetary help if possible.
Even with insurance those with Lyme Disease patients spend thousands and thousands of dollars each year trying to get healthy. Many people with Lyme Disease, like myself, have already gone through all available resources. Many families, like mine, with a Lyme Disease patient are not planning on exchanging Christmas gifts. I have been the recipient of monetary help and each time it is a humbling and most needed gift. These types of gifts do not have to be large either. Someone gave me a five dollar gift card to Target that helped purchase necessities. Such a blessing! Gift cards to Target are priceless! This can help purchase medications, groceries, clothes, and the list goes on! Truly gift cards are wonderful if that is an option for you to give!
3. Purchase their favorite bath items.
Many Lyme Disease patients use special bath products (including shampoo, conditioner, soap, lotion, perfume, deodorant, etc.) that are free from certain dyes, chemicals, or ingredients. Yes, these items are more expensive but are necessary. What a lovely gift this would be for someone! Don't know what they use? Ask them or a family member!
Many Lyme Disease patients use special bath products (including shampoo, conditioner, soap, lotion, perfume, deodorant, etc.) that are free from certain dyes, chemicals, or ingredients. Yes, these items are more expensive but are necessary. What a lovely gift this would be for someone! Don't know what they use? Ask them or a family member!
4. Pay their Cell Phone Bill for a month.
Most of us with Lyme Disease desperately need our cell phones and that yucky bill each month takes out a huge amount of money. Consider paying their cell phone bill for a month! I have a Lymie friend who shared that a group of her former co-workers went down to her cell phone provider and paid her cell phone bill for the year. What an AMAZING gift!
Most of us with Lyme Disease desperately need our cell phones and that yucky bill each month takes out a huge amount of money. Consider paying their cell phone bill for a month! I have a Lymie friend who shared that a group of her former co-workers went down to her cell phone provider and paid her cell phone bill for the year. What an AMAZING gift!
5. Purchase a gift certificate to a special salon.
You know how you spend a lot of money on having your hair cut, nails done, etc. for the holiday season? Your loved one who is suffering from Lyme Disease would love that to but would never dream of spending the money on something like that anymore. I can speak from personal experience that the changes that occur with an illness in regards to personal appearance can be difficult. Different medications can cause weight changes, hair loss, skin break outs, and generally make you feel like you look "awful". I personally would love to have a hair cut, eye brows waxed, nails done, etc. but there is NO money for this type of thing. (To be completely personal I have had my hair cut twice in the last three years.) You get the point friends. If this is something you can give to a friend- it would be an incredibly blessing.
You know how you spend a lot of money on having your hair cut, nails done, etc. for the holiday season? Your loved one who is suffering from Lyme Disease would love that to but would never dream of spending the money on something like that anymore. I can speak from personal experience that the changes that occur with an illness in regards to personal appearance can be difficult. Different medications can cause weight changes, hair loss, skin break outs, and generally make you feel like you look "awful". I personally would love to have a hair cut, eye brows waxed, nails done, etc. but there is NO money for this type of thing. (To be completely personal I have had my hair cut twice in the last three years.) You get the point friends. If this is something you can give to a friend- it would be an incredibly blessing.
6. Listen without offering advice (unless asked).
When you offer unsolicited advice, it can come across as a lecture- even if that is not your intent. Someone once said: "Assume that we have heard all of the tips on Lyme Disease and leave it at that." I couldn't have said it any better.
When you offer unsolicited advice, it can come across as a lecture- even if that is not your intent. Someone once said: "Assume that we have heard all of the tips on Lyme Disease and leave it at that." I couldn't have said it any better.
7. Provide a special basket for a "night in".
Why not gather a few items together to give to those who can't go out? Perhaps a snack, movie, etc. could provide a lovely gift!
8. Soft, Snugly, and Comfy blankets.
I love feeling comfy- especially on days where the pain is intense and I feel so miserable. I love the gift of soft blankets, comfy sheets, and sweet throws. A couple of years ago I was the recipient of a beautiful prayer quilt. Every time that I look at it and use it I am reminded that there are SO many people praying for me.
Why not gather a few items together to give to those who can't go out? Perhaps a snack, movie, etc. could provide a lovely gift!
8. Soft, Snugly, and Comfy blankets.
I love feeling comfy- especially on days where the pain is intense and I feel so miserable. I love the gift of soft blankets, comfy sheets, and sweet throws. A couple of years ago I was the recipient of a beautiful prayer quilt. Every time that I look at it and use it I am reminded that there are SO many people praying for me.
9. Give a coupon book/ card that lists out something that you (and your family) will do once a month, once a week, etc. for a year.
Need suggestions? Here are just a few things that immediately come to mind:
Need suggestions? Here are just a few things that immediately come to mind:
(a) Help with housework.
(b) Help with yard work.
(c) Drive your friend to a doctors appointment or treatment (and offer to stay with them). I heard of a friend whose best friend drives her to every single doctors appointment in one area of her physical needs. That allows her spouse and other family members to have a "day off" of one doctor.
(d) Drive their children to school one day a week.
(e) Bring a meal twice a month.
(f) Pick up groceries once a week.
(g) Offer to go to Target, Walmart, etc. once a week or twice a month for them.
I could go on and on but y'all are creative!
10. Buy nice pajamas.
Those with Lyme Disease spend a lot of time in bed, at home, or in the hospital and nice pajamas are always a lovely gift.
11. Magazine subscriptions are a lovely gift!
Those with Lyme Disease spend a lot of time in bed, at home, or in the hospital and nice pajamas are always a lovely gift.
11. Magazine subscriptions are a lovely gift!
Magazines are great because they come in the mail (and we all LOVE getting happy mail) and are light and fun to read!
12. Purchase a netflix/hulu/pureflix account for a year.
13. Buy a "prime" membership on amazon.
12. Purchase a netflix/hulu/pureflix account for a year.
13. Buy a "prime" membership on amazon.
You can provide your friend with countless free TV shows, movies, and even books to read! And guess what? If they purchase supplements or products on amazon they will be eligible on FREE 2-day shipping! Someone gave me this gift a couple of years ago and it is truly priceless!
14. Create a relaxing atmosphere.
14. Create a relaxing atmosphere.
Purchase music, i-tunes gift cards, etc. so that your friend can listen to relaxing & encouraging music. (Disclaimer: #12-14 can be very difficult for some Lymies who struggle with sound so be extremely sensitive before purchasing these items!)
15. Gas Gift Cards.
I can't even begin to express how much money I spent in gas money each week driving to all of my local doctors appointments and this doesn't even begin to account for the ones that are not local. Gas gift cards are a wonderful gift.
16. Mind the car.
Along with #15 - a car gets lots of use. Take the car for a "spa day" and get the oil changed, washed, filled up with gas, and tuned up. This would be an AMAZING gift! Better yet, have someone do an entire tune up!
17. Ask them what the best books are on Lyme Disease and then read them.
15. Gas Gift Cards.
I can't even begin to express how much money I spent in gas money each week driving to all of my local doctors appointments and this doesn't even begin to account for the ones that are not local. Gas gift cards are a wonderful gift.
16. Mind the car.
Along with #15 - a car gets lots of use. Take the car for a "spa day" and get the oil changed, washed, filled up with gas, and tuned up. This would be an AMAZING gift! Better yet, have someone do an entire tune up!
17. Ask them what the best books are on Lyme Disease and then read them.
Tell them that you have spent the time doing this and believe me this is PRICELESS. You will be able to have an intelligent and compassionate conversation from that moment forward since you will be knowledgeable about their illness, especially from the perspective of the books that they have recommended. (Side Note: Read what they suggest not what wikipedia says...)
18. Introduce a hobby or supplement their existing hobby.
Does your friend do a hobby that helps them pass the time or that they enjoy? Perhaps your friend has opened an online shop to help cover the cost of treatment? Purchase items that they have been wanting or give them a gift card to their favorite specialty craft store. Do they not have a hobby but have been talking about starting one? Buy the intro book, the intro supplies, and give them the gift of creativity!
18. Introduce a hobby or supplement their existing hobby.
Does your friend do a hobby that helps them pass the time or that they enjoy? Perhaps your friend has opened an online shop to help cover the cost of treatment? Purchase items that they have been wanting or give them a gift card to their favorite specialty craft store. Do they not have a hobby but have been talking about starting one? Buy the intro book, the intro supplies, and give them the gift of creativity!
19. Give the gift or reading.
Is there something that your friend loves to read? Buy them the books they have been wanting but can't afford. Does your friend struggle with Neuro Lyme and can't read anymore? Give them books on tape! Don't know what to give them? Purchase a gift card to a bookstore or a kindle gift card. Maybe even purchase a kindle...
20. Research and Purchase a Gadget that can help them as they fight Lyme Disease.
You have heard me say this before but money is tight and lots of times gadgets are not purchased that could help make the journey easier. Don't know what is needed? Ask them or their family members!
21. Pay for an upcoming Doctors Appointment.
One of the things that many people don't understand is that despite having insurance your Lymie friend most likely has to pay for their doctors appointments out of pocket. This means that instead of just having a co-pay your friend is responsible for the entire doctors visit at the time of the appointment. Prices vary but patients can bay anywhere between $375 to $1800 per appointment. Consider paying for a doctors appointment (or partial appointment) by calling the doctors office and seeing how you can put money on their account. Believe me- this would be a priceless gift.
21. Pay for an upcoming Doctors Appointment.
One of the things that many people don't understand is that despite having insurance your Lymie friend most likely has to pay for their doctors appointments out of pocket. This means that instead of just having a co-pay your friend is responsible for the entire doctors visit at the time of the appointment. Prices vary but patients can bay anywhere between $375 to $1800 per appointment. Consider paying for a doctors appointment (or partial appointment) by calling the doctors office and seeing how you can put money on their account. Believe me- this would be a priceless gift.
22. Journals.
While not everyone is a writer, some of us go through journalsyearly monthly weekly. *smiles* OOh... and pretty pens... hahaha that last one is just for me!
While not everyone is a writer, some of us go through journals
23. Purchase supplements, oils, IV treatments, etc.
Is your friend using alternative supplements? Most people with Lyme Disease use alternative treatments and these can be an expensive but necessary "addition" to their regime. Consider giving a gift card to their reflexologist, acupuncturist, massage therapist, chiropractor, etc. These are often expensive and this would be a wonderful gift. (Disclaimer: only purchase what your friend is currently using. This is not the time to give advice on what you believe would be the cure!)
Is your friend using alternative supplements? Most people with Lyme Disease use alternative treatments and these can be an expensive but necessary "addition" to their regime. Consider giving a gift card to their reflexologist, acupuncturist, massage therapist, chiropractor, etc. These are often expensive and this would be a wonderful gift. (Disclaimer: only purchase what your friend is currently using. This is not the time to give advice on what you believe would be the cure!)
24. Purchase items from their business.
Many Lymies have had to leave the job they love and have tried to find a way to make money in a new capacity. Support their endeavor. Do they have an etsy shop? Purchase gifts from that shop and spread the news about their shop via social media. Do they make things and sell them on the side? Have they written books? Help spread the word! One friend that I have who has Epilepsy had to quit her job teaching but is the most AMAZING baker and creates gorgeous and delicious pies. Another friend of ours went around to local churches who were holding Thanksgiving dinners this year and set up a business deal for her where the churches purchased the pies and she was able to gain enough income for a couple of months. This was an amazing idea our friend had but my friend with Epilepsy didn't have the energy to even think about it! This was an incredible blessing and guess what? She has "expanded" outside of our city and next year has double the orders from other churches and businesses!! Think outside the box for your friend, support their work - whether it is through purchasing something yourself or just simply spreading the word!
Many Lymies have had to leave the job they love and have tried to find a way to make money in a new capacity. Support their endeavor. Do they have an etsy shop? Purchase gifts from that shop and spread the news about their shop via social media. Do they make things and sell them on the side? Have they written books? Help spread the word! One friend that I have who has Epilepsy had to quit her job teaching but is the most AMAZING baker and creates gorgeous and delicious pies. Another friend of ours went around to local churches who were holding Thanksgiving dinners this year and set up a business deal for her where the churches purchased the pies and she was able to gain enough income for a couple of months. This was an amazing idea our friend had but my friend with Epilepsy didn't have the energy to even think about it! This was an incredible blessing and guess what? She has "expanded" outside of our city and next year has double the orders from other churches and businesses!! Think outside the box for your friend, support their work - whether it is through purchasing something yourself or just simply spreading the word!
25. Give them the gift of becoming an advocate of their disease.
I suggested asking your loved one what books that they would recommend to read about Lyme Disease but why not also because an advocate? Isn't it wonderful that there are so many walks and "government supported" funding for certain illnesses? That came about in part because of friends and family rallied to bring awareness. What about Lyme Disease? Do you know how what it really is? (If you don't you can read this post, "What is Lyme Disease" by clicking HERE!) Do you know how it is affecting your friend specifically? Do you know what is happening in Congress or at the state level in regards to it? Become an advocate for your loved one and for the thousands of others that might not have loved ones who care.
I suggested asking your loved one what books that they would recommend to read about Lyme Disease but why not also because an advocate? Isn't it wonderful that there are so many walks and "government supported" funding for certain illnesses? That came about in part because of friends and family rallied to bring awareness. What about Lyme Disease? Do you know how what it really is? (If you don't you can read this post, "What is Lyme Disease" by clicking HERE!) Do you know how it is affecting your friend specifically? Do you know what is happening in Congress or at the state level in regards to it? Become an advocate for your loved one and for the thousands of others that might not have loved ones who care.
26. Bath Spa- Hot tub.
Yes, hot tubs are expensive but Amazon sells the Conair Thermal Bath Spa Mat for a very reasonable price. This would be such a lovely gift! Along with this idea: special heating pads, massage heating pads, etc.
Yes, hot tubs are expensive but Amazon sells the Conair Thermal Bath Spa Mat for a very reasonable price. This would be such a lovely gift! Along with this idea: special heating pads, massage heating pads, etc.
27. Winter items.
Do y'all live in an area where winter rears its ugly head? Consider purchasing a can of spray defroster so that they do not have to scrape their car! (And maybe gloves, warm scarves, etc.!)
Do y'all live in an area where winter rears its ugly head? Consider purchasing a can of spray defroster so that they do not have to scrape their car! (And maybe gloves, warm scarves, etc.!)
28. Purchase (or create) holiday cards to send out (and give them a book of stamps).
I used to love sending Christmas Cards out (and still do) but the reality is that it is very expensive to purchase cards and stamps. The past couple of years I have only sent a few cards out due to the cost. I would have loved to send more and many people with Lyme Disease really want to, but with the cost of shipping it is impossible. Consider blessing your friend in this way. (Concerned that the extra stamps will go to waste? Don't be. Lots of medical bills still have to be sent out the old fashioned way - your friend will use those stamps one way or another!)
29. Help your friend address Christmas Card Envelopes.
Sometimes the energy to address the cards can be an issue. Offer to address the cards (and mail them!) for your friend! (Does your friend need to send out presents in the mail? Offer to do this for them! Waiting in line at the post office can be physically exhausting!)
29. Help your friend address Christmas Card Envelopes.
Sometimes the energy to address the cards can be an issue. Offer to address the cards (and mail them!) for your friend! (Does your friend need to send out presents in the mail? Offer to do this for them! Waiting in line at the post office can be physically exhausting!)
30. Write them a Letter.
The amount of emotions that encompass a day of living with Lyme Disease is absolutely staggering. There are hundreds of different side effects that your Lymie friend is dealing with and the road to healing is not a straight line. Your friend may be happy in the morning and one hour later is in tears because something didn't go right with the insurance company or the pharmacy. A beautiful gift in the middle of all of the chaos is a letter from a friend, cheering them on, expressing support and love and hope. This would be a beautiful gift that your friend would read many times over. Another idea? I was just the recipient of an envelope stuffed with letters from people that I don't know from a dear friends church. These people had spent time praying for me and then all wrote me letters. I have cried over them, re-read them hundreds of times already, and have been reminded that I am not alone. Words are powerful and can be the best gift of all.
31. Homemade Inspirational Artwork.
Create artwork that can be displayed- especially for those who are bedridden.
32. Create a Retreat.
Do you have a Lymie coming to visit for the holidays? Consider setting them up somewhere that they can retreat to rest and relax when they are feeling sick. A sweet friend of mine shared a precious story from a Christmas a couple of years ago. She was dreading a trip to her sister and brother-in-laws home simply because she knew that there would be 30 (!!) people that would all be staying in the home and it would offer little quiet time which she desperately needed at that stage of her treatment. She was very concerned about this and was considering not going on the trip when a beautiful present arrived in the mail. Her sister and brother-in-law had reserved a room at an exclusive retreat center in the same town. This allowed her the freedom to be apart of the holidays but also the necessary space to retreat and rest. As she says "it was the best Christmas present ever"! What a beautiful gift. Maybe you can't afford to do that but why not set up a special room in your home for your loved one where they can retreat as needed? This will give them an incredible blessing amidst the "hustle and bustle".
33. Give a gift card for "unmentionables".
If your friend hasn't had the money (or the energy) to buy new clothes in a while consider giving them a gift card to purchase the necessities that they probably need.
34. Purchase Pet Items.
Does your friend have a pet? Consider purchasing a gift card to their vet, paying for a pet "check up" (or grooming), or giving them a gift basket of necessary food and litter, treats, or toys.
35. Remember the caregiver(s).
I have often said this but me being ill is often harder on my family then myself. To see people that are constantly hurting and suffering and not be able to do anything about it is excruciating. Reach out to the caregivers and you will touch the heart of the person who is ill too.
As I have said countless times here on the blog, realize that your friend or family member with Lyme Disease is the best gift this season. Their illness is forcing them to set limitations but the gift to you is remembering what is truly important in the holiday season. Celebrate people. Not things or activities. At the end of the day people are the most important thing not whether or not you were able to buy every single gift in the world, decorate your house the best, or have the cutest pinterest worthy decorations. People are what matter friends and Lyme Disease may be the best gift in helping us all remember that this holiday season!
Looking for other posts on how to help friends with an illness during the holiday season?
Check out these other posts:
The amount of emotions that encompass a day of living with Lyme Disease is absolutely staggering. There are hundreds of different side effects that your Lymie friend is dealing with and the road to healing is not a straight line. Your friend may be happy in the morning and one hour later is in tears because something didn't go right with the insurance company or the pharmacy. A beautiful gift in the middle of all of the chaos is a letter from a friend, cheering them on, expressing support and love and hope. This would be a beautiful gift that your friend would read many times over. Another idea? I was just the recipient of an envelope stuffed with letters from people that I don't know from a dear friends church. These people had spent time praying for me and then all wrote me letters. I have cried over them, re-read them hundreds of times already, and have been reminded that I am not alone. Words are powerful and can be the best gift of all.
31. Homemade Inspirational Artwork.
Create artwork that can be displayed- especially for those who are bedridden.
32. Create a Retreat.
Do you have a Lymie coming to visit for the holidays? Consider setting them up somewhere that they can retreat to rest and relax when they are feeling sick. A sweet friend of mine shared a precious story from a Christmas a couple of years ago. She was dreading a trip to her sister and brother-in-laws home simply because she knew that there would be 30 (!!) people that would all be staying in the home and it would offer little quiet time which she desperately needed at that stage of her treatment. She was very concerned about this and was considering not going on the trip when a beautiful present arrived in the mail. Her sister and brother-in-law had reserved a room at an exclusive retreat center in the same town. This allowed her the freedom to be apart of the holidays but also the necessary space to retreat and rest. As she says "it was the best Christmas present ever"! What a beautiful gift. Maybe you can't afford to do that but why not set up a special room in your home for your loved one where they can retreat as needed? This will give them an incredible blessing amidst the "hustle and bustle".
33. Give a gift card for "unmentionables".
If your friend hasn't had the money (or the energy) to buy new clothes in a while consider giving them a gift card to purchase the necessities that they probably need.
34. Purchase Pet Items.
Does your friend have a pet? Consider purchasing a gift card to their vet, paying for a pet "check up" (or grooming), or giving them a gift basket of necessary food and litter, treats, or toys.
35. Remember the caregiver(s).
I have often said this but me being ill is often harder on my family then myself. To see people that are constantly hurting and suffering and not be able to do anything about it is excruciating. Reach out to the caregivers and you will touch the heart of the person who is ill too.
As I have said countless times here on the blog, realize that your friend or family member with Lyme Disease is the best gift this season. Their illness is forcing them to set limitations but the gift to you is remembering what is truly important in the holiday season. Celebrate people. Not things or activities. At the end of the day people are the most important thing not whether or not you were able to buy every single gift in the world, decorate your house the best, or have the cutest pinterest worthy decorations. People are what matter friends and Lyme Disease may be the best gift in helping us all remember that this holiday season!
Looking for other posts on how to help friends with an illness during the holiday season?
Check out these other posts:
14 More Christmas Present Ideas For Your Chronically Ill Friend
15 Ways to Help a Friend with a Chronic Illness at Thanksgiving
Interested in purchasing one of my Lyme Books as a Christmas Present? You can click on the links below to go to each Lyme Disease book! Thank you so much for your support!
(1) When Light Dawns: Daily Reflections on Advent and Christmas for Lyme Warriors
(2) Praying through Lyme Disease- Book of Prayers
(3) When Hope Restores: Daily Reflections on Hope from the Psalms for the Lyme Disease Journey
(4) When Truth Refreshes: Daily Reflections for the Emotions that Accompany the Lyme Disease Journey
15 Ways to Help a Friend with a Chronic Illness at Thanksgiving
Interested in purchasing one of my Lyme Books as a Christmas Present? You can click on the links below to go to each Lyme Disease book! Thank you so much for your support!
(1) When Light Dawns: Daily Reflections on Advent and Christmas for Lyme Warriors
(2) Praying through Lyme Disease- Book of Prayers
(3) When Hope Restores: Daily Reflections on Hope from the Psalms for the Lyme Disease Journey
(4) When Truth Refreshes: Daily Reflections for the Emotions that Accompany the Lyme Disease Journey
I have also written 2 E-Books that are specific for things to pray and do and for a Chronically Ill friend and those that love them!
(6) 12 Things to Do
Happy Tuesday friends! I hope that the start to your December (and this week) have been good for you! Today I am so excited to share all about this beautiful cozy Christmas junk journal that was inspired by our sleigh ride tradition! If you want to see this beautiful flip through- check out the instagram reel HERE!
If you are interested in purchasing this beautiful chunky journal you can go directly to the shop and purchase it HERE! This is the front of the journal (above) and below is the back of this junk journal!
I just adore this beautiful winter scene! This is actually made from a deconstructed vintage record cover that was a bit tattered before it was lovingly restored for this beautiful journal.
.jpeg "a cozy christmas junk journal inspired by our sleigh ride")
And I just love all of the "cozy chunkiness" of this junk journal!!
Again, if you are interested in purchasing this beautiful journal you can go directly to the shop and purchase it HERE!
The side charms and the extra little mini journal on the side just makes me smile!
Snowy Christmas evenings and old-fashioned sleigh rides have always held a special place in my heart, and this junk journal was created straight from those memories.
Each page is layered with winter textures, soft neutrals, vintage charm, and hints of that cozy magic that makes the season feel timeless.
This Christmas Snow Junk Journal—inspired by our sleigh-ride tradition (you can watch an adorable reel of our sleigh ride adventure that specifically inspired this journal HERE)—is now available in the December Caravan Etsy Shop for anyone looking to add a touch of handmade winter wonder to their holiday season.
With more than 100 pages/tags that include quality and beautiful scrapbook paper, adorable vintage and modern embellishments and ephemera and tags, cards, ribbon (both vintage and unique modern) and pretty surprises for the owner to receive, this Junk Journal will create a treasured keepsake for a lifetime and can be used throughout the holiday season and years to come.
I hope it brings warmth, beauty, and a little bit of nostalgic joy to your cozy moments this year. You can explore it and all the holiday pieces in the shop through the link in my bio.
Sharing a sweet reel where I would love to hear your thoughts- do you love sleigh rides? Please head on over to watch, comment, and like the reel HERE!
Again, if you are interested in purchasing this beautiful journal you can go directly to the shop and purchase it HERE!
Thank you so much for all of the interest! It was so fun to create this special junk journal and to share this with the world. I am so excited for whoever purchases this heirloom journal! I hope you have a wonderful Tuesday friends!
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.jpg "merry christmas friends")
“Nevertheless, that time of darkness and despair shall not go on forever.”
- Isaiah 9:1-
Friends, I wish I could send each and every one of you a Christmas card this year!
Please know that from the bottom of my little heart I am sending warmest wishes for a wonderful Christmas to you and your loved ones. May you be abundantly blessed by His love, joy, comfort, and most of all His peace these next few days and as we approach 2025.
I am taking a bit of a break from work and blogging these next few days and look forward to connecting and will be back here on the blog regularly starting Wednesday, January 1st! From now until then, I am sending joy across this space.
Please know that from the bottom of my little heart I am sending warmest wishes for a wonderful Christmas to you and your loved ones. May you be abundantly blessed by His love, joy, comfort, and most of all His peace these next few days and as we approach 2025.
I am taking a bit of a break from work and blogging these next few days and look forward to connecting and will be back here on the blog regularly starting Wednesday, January 1st! From now until then, I am sending joy across this space.
I know that some of you are feeling very "unseen" and "forgotten" this Christmas season... please know you are not. I have been thinking a lot about Joseph this Advent season... his faithfulness to God and specifically his humility into a story that he presumably imagined to be quite different. Matthew 1:19 says, "Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly".
I have read that scripture so many times and yet this year it has truly stuck out to me. Despite Joseph's (understandable) heartbrokenness of his dreams and desires he decided to divorce Mary quietly. As it would have become evident that Mary was pregnant people would have than assumed Joseph was the father and that he than had had a change of heart after being intimate with her. He, and not Mary, would have been seen as the dishonorable party in the relationship. Her dignity would have remained pure and covered.
In the few and simple words, read nearly every Christmas Eve service around the world, we find a man who showed mercy, forgiveness, and grace and despite feeling hurt and betrayed refused to humiliate and denounce her to the public. Joseph must have felt very unseen, forgotten, and a bit lost at this point... his hopes and dreams shattered, and yet still offering mercy, grace and forgiveness. It has also struck me that there must have been so many different times as Jesus was growing up that he would have witnessed this in his childhood years...
This Christmas... if you feel forgotten or a story looks very different than you were imagining... my prayer for you is simple. May you feel specifically and tenderly loved by God in unique and personal ways as you step forward into mercy, grace and forgiveness. May the Hope and promise of this season gently remind you the Lord loves you beyond compare. If you don't have a personal relationship with Jesus please email me. I would love to send you a Bible or a devotional or pray with you and share more about Him.
Merry Christmas and thank you for making this such a wonderful space and community to come to each and every single day. I can't wait for 2025 and all of the beautiful adventures that are coming in this new year!
Merry Christmas!
"I heard the bells on Christmas Day
Their old familiar carols play
And wild and sweet the words repeat
Of peace on earth, good will to men.
And in despair I bowed my head;
'There is no peace on earth,' I said,
For hate is strong and mocks the song
of peace on earth, good will to men.
Then pealed the bells more loud and deep;
God is not dead, nor doth He sleep;
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail,
With peace on earth, good will to men."
I have shared the story of the beautiful Christmas Carol, I heard the Bells on Christmas Day, in my book, When Light Dawns, and today I wanted to share a bit more of it here on the blog. This beautiful Christmas Carol was written by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow in 1863, and came after a series of personal tragedies occurred in his life.
First, in the early 1860s, an unusual heat wave had struck Massachusetts, which affected Longfellow’s family. This prompted Fanny, his wife, to trim the hair of their 7-year-old daughter to help her feel cooler. Sentimentally, Fanny decided to seal the locks of hair with wax, but tragically, hot wax spilled onto her dress and caught on fire. Henry unsuccessfully tried to extinguish the fire with a blanket, and then tried stopping the fire by throwing himself on his wife, which resulted in his face, arms, and hands being burned. Heart-breakingly, Fanny Longfellow died the following morning from her injuries and was buried 3 days later on their 18th wedding anniversary. Due to his own severe burns, Henry wasn’t able to attend her funeral, but later was recorded as saying a line from his famous hymn, The wrong shall fail, the right prevail.
Shortly after this in 1863, Henry was informed (by letter) that his oldest son joined the Union soldiers during the fight of the American Civil War. In November of 1863, Charles was severely wounded in the Battle of New Hope Church. These two events together, proved to be the foundation for Henry’s famous poem Christmas Bells, which was later put to music and became a famous Christmas carol.
I am so humbled that this post was originally shared over at Mundane Faithfulness in 2016. You can find the original guest post HERE!
First, in the early 1860s, an unusual heat wave had struck Massachusetts, which affected Longfellow’s family. This prompted Fanny, his wife, to trim the hair of their 7-year-old daughter to help her feel cooler. Sentimentally, Fanny decided to seal the locks of hair with wax, but tragically, hot wax spilled onto her dress and caught on fire. Henry unsuccessfully tried to extinguish the fire with a blanket, and then tried stopping the fire by throwing himself on his wife, which resulted in his face, arms, and hands being burned. Heart-breakingly, Fanny Longfellow died the following morning from her injuries and was buried 3 days later on their 18th wedding anniversary. Due to his own severe burns, Henry wasn’t able to attend her funeral, but later was recorded as saying a line from his famous hymn, The wrong shall fail, the right prevail.
Shortly after this in 1863, Henry was informed (by letter) that his oldest son joined the Union soldiers during the fight of the American Civil War. In November of 1863, Charles was severely wounded in the Battle of New Hope Church. These two events together, proved to be the foundation for Henry’s famous poem Christmas Bells, which was later put to music and became a famous Christmas carol.
The tragedy that Henry Longfellow endured—and so many others walk through—astounds and humbles me. It is a great reminder that a year can be filled with incredible losses and pain as well as joys and triumphs. Unfortunately, the holiday season takes no exception and can sometimes compound the grief that we have experienced.
Sometimes in the midst of pain, I have questioned what I really have to celebrate. Sometimes the pain can make it difficult to get into the holiday mood. Sometimes real life doesn’t allow us to have a Pinterest-worthy Christmas, yet what I am finding in the cracks and crevices of this Christmas season is that there is simple joy and peace to be found at Christmas.
In focusing on Christ and those whom God has placed in my path to embrace with grace and love, I see the hope of what Christmas is all about. In the midst of the incredible divisions in our country, I bow my head and think, as Henry did back in the Civil War era, that there is no peace on earth; yet the bells that echo throughout this season remind me there is much to rejoice in celebrating the birth of Jesus.
My prayer and dream this Christmas is that I will be preparing my heart as much as my home for this holiday season.
My prayer is that I will take the time to stop and love those who are hurting before me, as much as I take the time to decorate my tree.
My dream is that I will be challenged to give gifts not only to those whom I know well, but also to the hurting person who may need the physical reminder of Christ’s tangible love in more ways that I can imagine.
My hope is that the best gift I can give this year is more of God’s love and more of His grace each and everyday.
My wish is to remind those whom I love that the bells are still ringing with God’s grace and truth.
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.jpg "celebrating advent in the waiting seasons of life")
"...she never left the temple but worshipped night and day, fasting and praying."
// Luke 2:37 //
Happy December 1st friends and welcome to the advent season of 2024. It feels like December has quickly come after a week of extreme emotions and experiences... I am finding myself overwhelmed with gratitude at how well my precious mom is doing and approaching this advent season considering one of my favorites stories of the Bible... from Luke chapter 2.
This chapter tells the story of Anna and from the brief description that we receive about Anna we know that she had lived a long life and yet suffered greatly as she had lost her husband after only seven short years of marriage. Scripture tells us that she was a widow from that time until she was 84 years old.
In a society that required many women to rely on men for basic survival, the story doesn't focus on the fact of what she lost or her concern for her survival but the story shares that she had spent her life waiting for the King of Kings and believing that he was coming.
One of the reasons that this story is one of my favorites is that scripture shares that she spent her life worshipping day and night, fasting and praying. Her sole focus was on the coming king and the on the celebration that she knew would come at the end of her waiting season. She chose to worship and celebrate in the midst of waiting all of those years.
Like many of you perhaps I have sometimes approached the Advent season with a myriad of different emotions- joy at our Saviors birth and yet discouragement at the things that I am still waiting for. I am challenged and encouraged and inspired by Anna- to celebrate in the midst of waiting. For so many people, including myself, there can be many emotions around this time of year and yet that is why I love the advent season.
It is of interesting to note that the contrary to popular belief, the season of advent is rarely four weeks long and it can actually vary from year to year on what its exact length is. I find this particularly interesting for those that are waiting on a variety of different prayer requests and hopes and longings behind the scenes. In a waiting season we may never know exactly how long something may be or how long the journey might last. Our prayers can be answered in a second, or in the weeks or months or years to come.
The advent season is a season of waiting and inspiration for us all. Like those who have gone before us and like Anna, we can find inspiration and encouragement in this season knowing that the God of light came into the darkness. May we find everlasting peace and incredible hope in this season as we celebrate the birth of our King as the true light of lights that has dawned.
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.jpg "canadian pacific holiday train 2023// adirondacks, upstate new york")
Happy Tuesday friends! Last year we started a new fun new holiday tradition...seeing the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train! If it is in your area go and see it! It was a fun way to celebrate the holidays and free to experience! If you visit a "stopping" point there is a concert and an opportunity to donate food items to help those in your community!
.jpg "canadian pacific holiday train 2023// adirondacks, upstate new york")
Last year we had a fun night "chasing the train" in different locations and enjoying the fun with tons of laughter! This year we decided that we would go see the train go along the lake and it was absolutely stunning. We arrived early, brought a fun snack to wait out our time like a fun picnic in the car, and admired the beauty that we were witnessing in the dark.
It was freezing this year (*smiles*) but it didn't diminish the fun as we jumped out of the car and watched the entire span that we could. It truly didn't diminish the joy of seeing this and we were bundled up smiling and just admiring the beauty. It was definitely a favorite way of seeing it and we have already decided that we will go back to see it somewhere along the lake again!
.jpg "canadian pacific holiday train 2023// adirondacks, upstate new york")
Have you been to see the holiday train in your area? Want to see a video of the train? Check out the reel on Instagram from last year HERE and stay tuned for a fun reel from this year coming soon!
Happy Wednesday friends! Today I am excited to link up with some other bloggers and share some sweet stocking stuffers that are unique, special, and one-of-a-kind stocking stuffer gift ideas for under $20! I hope you love them!
COST: $18.75 (Black Friday Sale started TODAY on ENTIRE STORE!) (Originally $25)
Shop: December Caravan on Etsy
I am loving and SO humbled by how much y'all are loving these Christmas Key Chain Junk Journals that can also be used as a keepsake ornament for years to come.
These cozy bit key chain junk journals are the perfect way to keep track and treasure the magic ordinary of each day. Adorned on a special clip that can attach to a key ring, purse, journal, photo album and so much more, these mini junk journals are the perfect size. Resting at 2x2 each chunky journal is perfectly curated collection of rare sweet vintage and distinctive modern materials to inspire hope and joy in every area of your life. This beautiful mini christmas junk journal is the perfect gift for a loved one or for yourself to write down precious moments and save the priceless scraps of time from each day. Inspired by the precious memories of twinkling lights, cozy snowy weather, christmas music, whimsical memories of caroling, under the winter stars, the smells of baking, and joy at new beginnings, these precious christmas mini junk journals are the perfect gift for anyone! THIS is the perfect gift!! This would be the perfect gift for those who are in your life!
Click HERE to go directly to the shop!!!
Cost: $14.79
I have shared so many times about this book in the last couple of years and yes, I keep saying this but I am planning to write an entire post on it alone, but suffice it to say... LIFE CHANGING. Go purchase the book and give it to your loved ones who are struggling this season in a broken-hearted season. You will not be disappointed and they will not be disappointed. AT ALL. You can purchase it HERE.
Similar book recommendations that I have read by Sheridan Voysey that I would recommend to this book:
Cost: $12.59
I have read and re-read this one and am now making my way through it for a third time. I am digesting it sometimes one sentence at a time or other days a paragraph or two at a time... it is a book that has so many precious nuggets in it that it is meant to be savored and would be another amazing stocking stuffer - or purchase both together! You can find it to purchase HERE.
Cost: $14.33
Y'all. I have searched for years for an at home nail system that actually works, stays on, and looks like I got my nails done. These are the BEST and I can't recommend them enough. I have worked in the woods in them, packed up a camp, held a summit conference for my work, etc. etc. etc. and they are truly fantastic. This is the PERFECT gift for loved ones and friends and family who are looking for something easy at home and still want their nails to look like they were professionally done.
Click HERE to go directly to them!
Cost: $9.18
My sister introduced my mom and I to this this summer and y'all it is so good. I mean SERIOUSLY so yummy and would be a really fun stocking stuffer for those who love to cook and those who are wanting something yummy and different in the kitchen! Have you tried this?
Cost: (Travel Size): $14.20 for each
I shared this before on the blog and still get a ton of questions about it throughout this week so I am sharing this again! I often get asked what is my favorite shampoo and conditioner and y'all this remains my favorite of all time! Ironically I was introduced to this brand and shampoo and conditioner after a disastrous hair cut back in 2021, but the shampoo and conditioner that they used at this new salon I was trying was AMAZING. I love the way it helps my hair look amazing (like I have just had a blowout!) and is healthy for my hair! It is a bit pricey, but it lasts for SO long (and y'all know I have THICK hair and lots of it!) and you can find it on Amazon HERE!
So there are some of my favorite fun and sweet stocking stuffers that are under $20! What are some of your favorites to receive and give?
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