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.
This year is not too stressful because I am mostly done with shopping (both mine and for my mom who is 97 and no longer gets out). I am mostly looking forward to the rest of the holiday season.
You’re in great shape, Peg. How wonderful that your mother is still with you. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
My family has decided not to do gifts this year too. Being together as a family on Christmas IS the gift. Thanks for a chance to win the beautiful table runner.
So true, Linda! Thanks for entering the giveaway. Good luck!
I am not too stressed yet, as we just returned from Tennessee, where we celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary and thanksgiving with our three boys and their families. I think our Christmas this year will be very low keyed as we will be alone. Have a happy holiday.
Your 50th anniversary celebration with your family sounds fabulous, Carol! Good luck in the giveaway!
Just embracing this time of year and keeping it as simple as possible. Sat today and addressed a few cards bought a few gifts.
Wow, Tina, embracing the season is what I’d like to do. Thanks for reminding me to get my cards out … Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I’m so happy this time of year as I finish my homemade gifts. I love making gifts for family and friends. I think a nice dinner out with my husband is a great gift. After 50 years together we enjoy being with each other without gifts, we celebrate the reason for the season . How ever you decide to celebrate we send you Gods Blessings .
Thank you, Sparkle, for your lovely comment and for sending me blessings. I wish I could see all your homemade gifts. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
Christmas greetings to you.
After my husband passed away 10 yrs ago, I decided to stop the over the top gift buying. My income decreased and I didn’t need the stress.
My granddaughter is the only one I send a gift card to, she is now 15 .
I love to do cookie baking that happens next week. Spend family time on Christmas eve and worship Christmas day. This works for me. No hassles no gloom.
Merry Christmas to you. Thanks for entering the giveaway, Regina!
Kate
2016 was a year of many trials for our family, when you have a year like that or times like that you realize how strong your family foundation is. We have always thought our children that when anything bad or difficult happens to you or a member of your family you forgive and in turn do something for someone else.
With that said your expectations for what you want decrease and what you want to do for others increase, because you realize in giving thats the source of faith your foundation is built. So our Christmas will be built around giving of ourself more than getting ourself.
Words of wisdom, Cherese! Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
Right now I am recovering from a complete shoulder replacement so a little anxious to be over it.
Sorry to hear you are recovering from surgery, Linda. Sounds as if you’ll be forced to take it easy this Christmas and rely on others. Hope your recovery goes quickly, but sometimes time is the healer. Thanks for entering the giveaway!
Kate
My hubby and I decided to do the same thing. We’ll have stocking stuffers for each other, but nothing big. We enjoy taking trips here and there throughout the year and plan to do that and call them Christmas gifts. We don’t need anything, so this will be more fun.
Christmas morning will certainly be different, Cindy, as my husband doesn’t even want to hang the stockings … But the truth is we don’t need anything, and certainly not more stress. We have each other and also enjoy taking trips throughout the year. Thanks for your encouraging comment and for entering the giveaway!
Kate
Hello Kate, Please enter me in the drawing for the lovely table runner and signed book. I love this time of year and do not feel so rushed now that I am retired. Christmas still sneaks up on us quickly, but now I don’t have to wait until I get off work to do this or that. Much more relaxed now. Even had time to crochet some hats for the grandchildren! Wishing you and yours a most blessed and a very Merry Christmas.
Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway, Kathy. Good luck. Those crocheted hats sound like darling gifts. A Merry Christmas to you and yours!
Kate
I always feel rushed this time of year except for this year. My husband will be working out of state and I will be alone. There will be no celebrations this year. My son is in prison, my youngest daughter has disowned us and my oldest daughter will be spending the holidays with her in-laws. My in-laws could care less about me. This is also going to be a hard Christmas, since it will be the first one since my dad passed away in Sept, 3 days after my birthday. My mom lives in another state and will be with my younger sister and her family.
Nothing is decorated nor will it be. We haven’t done decorations for several years now. It’s going to be just another day for me.
Thank you for the contest Kate and all your wonderful books.
Merry Christmas to you and yours.
Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway, Tina. Wow, you have a lot to contend with. When I first became a Christian and read a section about children turning against their parents I didn’t believe what I now know to be true. So sorry you lost your father. I miss my parents every day. I pray for healing in your family. About eight years ago I got appendicitis two days before Christmas, and came home the next day. The rest of my family spent Christmas Eve with our cousins and I propped myself in front of the TV and watched old movies. I actually enjoyed that time of solitude and it sure beat another night in the hospital. Merry Christmas to you!
Kate
my husband has been giving me a new heart locket every christmas…..i know he won’t stop doing that…..he said he doesn’t expect or need anything from me…..he has a new office at work, and no pictures on the wall, so i would like to give him a picture of our boys in a nice frame. i like a simple christmas….not extravagant with gads of gifts. the runner and books look great!
What a sweetheart of a husband you have, Amy. I love your idea about a framed photo of your boys for his office. Thanks for writing and good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I love this time of year and try not to stress out to much. I do a little decoration each day. I cut back on the amount of Christmas cards I send out and even on the gifts that I will give to family. May everyone have a very Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas to you, Nancy! Thanks for sharing your great ideas for keeping stress-free. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I suggested that this year, and my husband said NO. 🙂 Love that table runner.
A husband and wife rarely agree on everything, right, Pat? I suggested an artificial tree for years and my husband said NO, but he’s grown to like that tree that doesn’t need watering (my job) and dwells in our basement. (I do miss the aroma.) Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
This was a bad time to have to go to physical therapy because of a medical problem and seeing a different doctor every week. I don’t drive so I take PT and hospital transportation as well as our county bus to go shopping. My Kindle goes with me which I read while waiting for buses, which is a plus! This leaves me way behind schedule unfortunately. It’s just me and the cat and she can’t help.lol As long as I get Christmas cards out and get ornaments made for grandkids and my children, I’ll be happy. I gave up buying Christmas presents and give money as gifts along with candy and cashew filled Christmas bags plus at least one new homemade ornament. They like that, especially ornaments made by Grandma. They will have theirs to take with them for their tree when they have their own place.
You have a great attitude, Judy. Bet you are a fabulous grandma. What could be better? Thanks for entering the giveaway and I wishing you good luck!
Kate
I love to see the joy on my kids faces on Christmas Day and my husband and I try to make sure they get the things they want. Our children are very giving of their time and resources all year round, so we tend to try to spoil them a bit during Christmas. Merry Christmas blessings sent your way!
That joy on your kids’ face is priceless, Tracie! A fun day to spoil them. Merry Christmas blessings to you. Thanks for entering the giveaway!
Kate
I love your unexpected gift…so pretty and would love to win. Thanks for the opportunity. I enjoy buying gifts for my husband. It’s usually clothes and things he needs. This year we are visiting my mom and I put up her tree and decorated. With health issues and the years creeping up I just never know how many Christmases we have left together so wanted to make this one special. Blessings to you for a very Merry and peaceful Christmas.
You’re a kind and practical daughter to enjoy your mother while you can, Linda. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway. May you enjoy a merry and peaceful Christmas.
kate
I am harried. I work retail but I am trying to keep a positive attitude.
Sorry you’re harried, Virginia, but understandable if you work retail. Great that you’re able to maintain a positive attitude. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
Happy I am done shopping and that it’s almost over! Yay, LOL thanks
Good for you, Wendy! I’d be happy too. Thanks for spreading your good cheer and for entering the giveaway!
Kate
With 8 children and 8 grandchildren it’s hard not to feel stressed this time of year but we are trying to keep things as simple as possible. We try to concentrate on doing things with the grandchildren. This weekend we will try to make our annual trip to the local public market to buy our Christmas tree and other goodies. We have been making cookies whenever we have a little free time. We are also celebrating our 44th wedding anniversary this week. I have read the first book in your trilogy and would very much like to read the second. Thanks for the chance to win it.
Oh, I’m jealous of 8 kids and 8 grandkids, Carol. Sounds as though you have a close family with annual traditions. Wonderful! Thanks for entering the giveaway. Good luck and Happy Anniversary!
Kate
The most wonderful time of the year it is for sure and for certain. Christmas brings us the most precious gift in our lives~~the birth of our Savior. With that being said, it is the most wonderful time of the year.
Thank you so much Kate, for offering us this wonderful opportunity. You are an awesome and very talented author. We are so blessed by your talent. God bless and Merry Christmas!!!
Thanks for your generous words about my writing and for the huge reminder, Kristin. Our Savior’s birth often gets overlooked in the hustle and bustle. Good luck in the giveaway and may God bless you and yours with a Merry Christmas!
Kate
Merry Christmas. Please enter me in your contest.
This year we have cut way down on gift giving. It will just be for the little ones. Of course I am cheating and giving the adults a small gift. My granddaughter got me airline tickets to fly to spend. Christmas in Arizona,,so that I can see great grand daHughter
Wonderful that you will get to see your great grand-daughter, Sharon! Your granddaughter is a sweetheart to give you the tickets. You are officially entered in the contest. Good luck!
Kate
This is the first Christmas without my dad as he will be watching us from above. I hope that we an slow down and simplify Christmas, too. It really shouldn’t be so busy. I would love a calmer, more peaceful time.
Sorry you will be without your dad this year, Sonja. I miss mine too. Sigh. It sounds as though your goals for a calmer more peaceful time are the same as mine. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
I’ve finished doing the shopping for my parents as they are 90 and 86 and unable to do it anymore. I’ve did most of mine. I try to keep it simple, but I do love decorating. Pray you have a blessed and Merry Christmas .
Your parents have an exceptional daughter, Lucy. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway
. I pray you have a blessed and Merry Christmas too!
Kate
I always tend to stress out at this time of year. The older I get, the days tend to get shorter to accomplish things, with lots of health issues to deal with. As In years past, we now on mail cards after the New Year, sometimes near Valentine’s Day. As we enclose a newsy update, some folk have commented they like that better after the holidays, as they can take more time to read the letter. Last year, somehow due to illness, I even failed to accomplish that feat. This Saturday Dec. 10th will be 5 years since my Mama went to Heaven. We had taken care of her with Hospice’s help here at home for 5 months (2,5 years actually), but she was really down for 5 months. I remember crying so much that morning that God would indeed carry her on to Heaven as she was in such pain. I hated hearing her struggle. She seemingly awaited the arrival of the church carolers that morning, which included family, who sang by her bedside. And the arrival of all close family by her bedside that evening. All day it seemed she just waited. And then God called her home after everyone arrived, exactly in His time! It’s with saddenness and rejoicing that we face Christmas each year. So yes, Christmas can be very stressful but also a time to be thankful that God blesses and gives us joy even in the midst of trials.
You have painted a beautiful and touching picture, Linda. I agree that God blesses and brings us joy even in the midst of trials. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway. Good luck!
Kate
It is kinda a stressful year for me right now. But I can say one thing I have been able to read and do reviews and that really can make my days good. would love to win a signed book an also that runner as I will be spending the holiday alone everyone has their own families now days my family is in the books I read.
I’m glad to hear you receive satisfaction and happiness from reading and writing reviews. I’ve told people my fictional characters are my best friends. After my husband, although they can be a lot easier to get along with sometimes. Occasionally they do quirky things that flabbergast me. Thanks for entering the giveaway!
Kate
It’s beautiful.
Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway, Darla!
Kate
Am not quite ready but I look forward to seeing my grands faces when we get together for Christmas. Family, food, love…..it will be a great day!
Family, food, and love sound fantastic, Melanie! thanks for entering the giveaway!
Kate
I find myself going through the motions, yet inside yearn for simpler times. We don’t do extravagant gifts but when you have 32 gifts to purchase, well… we cherish our family. Our six kids and their spouses, our 17 grandchildren and one great grand plus the newly married grandchildren’s spouses are gifts to us. This year, as my husband awaits a new liver, we pray not only for a liver, but for The bereaved family of the one donating said liver. Last night we had a trial run on this transplant. As my husband is number 2 on this list, we were called from the transplant team to tell us to pack a bag in case the first person could not use the liver. First I hooped for joy, then reality sat in so before packing, we had prayer for the family of the one who died to make this liver available, then we prayed for the one in the number 1 spot, that he or she might be able to get the liver and then prayed God’s will be done. This is Christmas to us…after all, we celebrate Christ coming as a babe to die on the cross for our sins that we might have eternal life if we accept Him as our Savior. Forgive my ramblings…yes, this will be an emotional Christmas for us!
Oh, my, a roller coaster ride, Virginia! I pray your husband is number one on the list soon, and for a successful surgery. Thank you for your splendid description of God’s gift to us and why we celebrate. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
Merry Christmas!
I’m not stressed…..I keep it low key during the Holiday Season. I refuse to get caught up in all the running around like crazy and over spending.
I’m impressed, Denise! Good for you and thanks for entering the giveaway!
Kate
I believe that you and your husband will experience freedom from unmet expectations. There’s enough stress with getting the cards written and sent, finding gifts for the family, etc. Enjoy the freedom!
Thanks for your words of encouragement, Susan. Now about those cards … they may be my after Christmas project. Good luck in the giveaway!
My hubby & I haven’t exchanged gifts for several years now. We are trying to save money towards our future (buying a catamaran & sailing the seas) & would rather have our money go towards that. Hubby loves to decorate for Christmas, though. Brings back great family memories from his childhood. In comparison, I’m the ba humbug of our family, I like the Jesus part of the season, but I don’t “have” to have all of the other. Merry Christmas, Kate.
Sounds as if you and your husband are on the same page when it comes to sailing, Tina. However what fun that he likes to decorate and you don’t. I hope he loves the putting away part too. Merry Christmas and good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I have half of my shopping finished. Im behind this year.
Half finished is better than not even started, Paula. Good luck on finishing your shopping and in this giveaway!
Kate
I am trying to only buy things that are discounted and trying to save on not having item shipped to the home, but to pick up at stores.
Discount is one of my favorite words, Antoinette. Also, free shipping. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
I have LEAVING LANCASTER and would love to read the whole series. Getting a new roof on my house and listening to all the hammering now for 3 days. At least we’ll be dry if rain comes to Oceanside, CA
I would love you to read the whole Legacy of Lancaster Trilogy, Sharon! Maybe you’ll win the next book in this giveaway. In the meantime, I hope that the hammering doesn’t drive you nuts. Thanks for leaving your comment!
Kate
I think to spend quality time together is more important than gifts! The table runner is beautiful!
I couldn’t agree with you more, Sheila. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
This is my favorite time of the year. I love being busy…although sometimes I wonder about my state of mind. As you know my favorite thing to do is decorating our home….I do this for my kids and now my only 2 grandchildren. We celebrate Christmas here, traditional dinner and opening gifts. My husband and I don’t exchange gifts….maybe because we feel our gifts to each other are on going throughout the year. We have always tried to give to others….making someone else less fortunate feel loved and that someone cares about them. We try to remember a family or someone that is going to be alone on Christmas Day and invite them to spend that day with us. When it is time to open gifts….we always have those extra gifts under the tree for our guests. I keep extra gifts and wrappings in my bedroom….sometimes I need to make a quick shopping trip to choose and wrap!! We find giving to others is so rewarding!
You have a terrific attitude, Linda! And you’re generous. I wish I could see the interior of your decorated home. Thanks for this uplifting letter and for entering the giveaway!
Kate
I love this time of year. I still have a lot to do, but that is okay. I will get it all done. Love the table runner and thank you for the chance to win. I just love your books. Have a very Merry Christmas!
Thanks for writing and the lovely compliment, Debbie! Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I am just now being able to focus on the holidays because I have been busy with school. Looking forward to relaxing with family and friends this holiday season.
I hope your holiday season is the best yet, Hannah! Thanks for entering the giveaway!
Kate
I’m hoping to spend time with with my daughter andher husand and grandkids and try not to stess out.that is a pretty runner,thanksfor the giveaways and have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Your plans sound perfect, Barbara! Thanks for sending me your good wishes and for entering the giveaway!
Kate
I have really come to dread Christmas time every year. While my parents were still living we used to get together as a family but now that they have passed away everyone goes their own separate ways. Since I have never married or had children I tend to get lift out. To me Christmas time is family time. We seem to have forgotten that it is the time of year to celebrate Jesus’ birthday and that all the attention should be on him!
You are so right, Norma. Jesus was God’s gift to us. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway. May you be blessed in unexpected ways.
Kate
I’m basking in contentment. It seems the more I trust and obey,l the Lord, the more content I am. While I just had a health scare, my finances are meager, and I haven’t bought a single Christmas gift, I have true joy and even calm contentment. Thank you, Sweet Jesus!
Many would like to know your secret, Janet. They can if they follow your example. Thanks for writing and good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
Doesn’t help to get stressed. The same amount of time passes one way or another. Do what you can, when you can, and always start with the most necessary things. But always make a little time for yourself! The important thing is to enjoy the real reason we celebrate – birth of Jesus!
Wise words, Linda! Thanks for the good reminder of why we celebrate and for entering the giveaway!
Kate
Your Tree is Beautiful and the Wreaths on the gate are to. Also the Table Runner is so Beautiful. You have a Blessed Day. I am so excited I just got me a Kindle Fire Tablet for early Christmas present so I am going to Amazon and see your books. You have a Blessed Day!
I love early presents, Christine! What fun to get a Kindle. Sometimes my books go on sale on Amazon, but not right now. My girlfriend uses hers to borrow books from the library. Thanks for writing and good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I prepare for the holidays early, so I do have some stress early on. However, I prefer it that way, so when Christmas comes, I can keep my focus on my family, spending time together, and remembering the real meaning of Christmas.
Smart thinking, Heather! Stress can spoil the fun and focus of Christmas. Thanks for writing. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
Really trying to keep things simple and just enjoy time spent with family and friends. Merry Christmas
Sounds perfect, Michelle. Merry Christmas and good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
This is the most wonderful time of the year. Our family enjoy sending time together for Christmas and not doing exchanges with each one. It’s simpler and in reality we all our blessed with more than we need. Merry Christmas to you and yours.
Your family sounds wonderful, Marilyn! Not all families like to get together even on this precious occasion. Merry Christmas to you and yours! Wishing you good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
Thankful for internet shopping. Avoiding the rush in the stores help reduce stress and the packages keep arriving every day. Such fun.
I agree, Maxine! Without internet shopping I’d be sunk. I know my UPS deliveryman and mailman by name, and am so grateful when they hide packages at my back door so they don’t get stolen. Thanks for writing! Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
Merry Christmas Kate! Thankful for this Christmas Season to be reminded of the true meaning of Christmas….Jesus and His gift He gave us…a Saviour, a forever friend, a forever family, for Eternity! We are blessed! His blessings to you and your family!
I thank you for reminding me the true meaning of Christmas, Anita. Ah, I can feel the stress lift. May you and your family experience His blessings too. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
Would love to win. It would look beautiful on my bay window. My decorating is done along with shopping. We only buy for my great niece and nephew 4 & 6 now. Like you, husband and I stopped exchanging gifts last year or the same reason. Looking forward to reading your new book. Please let us know when we can preorder it. Hope you and your family have a wonderful holiday season.
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