A couple years ago, I watched the 1946 movie Great Expectations on TV. I’d re-read the Charles Dickens novel about ten years earlier and was surprised to find I preferred the black-and-white movie, which still circles through my brain.
This is the time of year for great expectations: must-dos, shopping for food and presents at chaotic stores without ample parking, trying to second-guess recipients’ wishes, hurry up and finish cooking or sewing projects. Finish writing a book!
As children, we were hopeful Santa would deliver what we longed for. At age three, my husband asked Santa for a machine gun and an axe, which never appeared. Wonder why.
Do you still wish Santa would leave you an unexpected gift?
Do we ever outgrow our childlike expectations? That someone else will fulfill our wishes, some desires hidden in our heart, sometimes kept a secret.
Opportunities to spend time with family can be both nurturing and draining. Many of us miss loved-ones as we fondly recall the past and attempt to fill the void. Or maybe endeavor to lay aside heartache, because our expectations weren’t met. Life is not a movie set where the Director can say, “Cut! Reshoot.”
Among the gifts I’ve received from the Amish is the knowledge forgiveness heals relationships. Over the years, praying for those who have wronged me or even for strangers has blessed me and others in unexpected ways.
Are you dreading the happiest time of the year or are you basking in contentment without stress? If so, what’s your secret?
My husband and I have decided to not exchange presents with each other this year in an effort to de-stress. Plus our house is near bursting. What do you think? Are we setting ourselves up for disappointment or freedom from unmet expectations?
I’d like to give one of you an unexpected gift. Leave a short comment and enter to win this 43” Amish-made Table Runner from Lancaster County, PA, plus a signed copy of a novel from The Legacy of Lancaster County Trilogy, CBA bestseller Leaving Lancaster, its sequel Pennsylvania Patchwork, or Forever Amish. USA & Canada. Winner chosen at random and has 3 days to respond.
Hello Kate! Not too stressed this year. Just trying to make memories and make others happy. No one owns tomorrow and we never know if this will be the last Christmas we spend with someone…or everyone. So we need to remember to just enjoy every moment we DO have here and Thank God for each new moment and memory we make. Merry Christmas to you and yours, Kate!! ⛄
You have a wonderful attitude, Cathy, Thanks for writing. Merry Christmas to you and your, and good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
Thanks so much for your encouraging letter, Sandy. I can’t wait for you to read my new book too. Thanks for entering the giveaway. Good luck!
Kate
I love the simpler life-style of the Amish and anticipate the arrival of your latest book. I’m not stressing about Christmas itself, but am working on giving my new home a festive air. It’s very different than our previous home and I’m finding it challenging to decorate. The Amish runner would look fantastic on my dining room table! Merry Christmas and God bless.
Thanks for entering the giveaway, Pam! Good luck! Your decorating challenge sounds fun even if challenging. Merry Christmas and God bless you.!
Kate
Beautiful pictures… I always look forward to giving gifts and encouraging others. Praying for the needs of others also helps them to feel Christs love.
Thanks for writing, Andrea! I find praying for others, even when I don’t want to, also helps me! Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
not too much stress this year….shopping almost done…looking forward to spending Christmas with family and dear friends…kinda low key this year…your table runner would look awesome on my table…and I love the bows on your gates….Merry Christmas Kate!
You sound in excellent shape, Mary. Ready to have a Merry Christmas. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
Down to the wrapping for my 2 children, just sitting inside watching the snow fall outside, so peacefull and beautiful. The table runner is beautiful. Merry CHRISTMAS.
Trying to stay unstressed this year. Love your books and following you on Facebook. Ready for Christmas and heading to the Smoky Mountains for New Year’s following the devastation from wildfires there at Thanksgiving.
Table runner is gorgeous. Hope you have a Merry Christmas and blessed New Year.
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Um abraçamento a o mundo inteiro. Você possuem em algum grau dúvida?
A carência cardíaca nunca significa que alma
parou.
cadáver negativo acredita bem como surta.
A escassez cardíaca negativo significa que coração
parou.