The Daily Balance

As the Christmas (and Hanukkah) season is upon us, I think it is important to keep Christmas in our hearts throughout the season, and not just the actual day. That being said — wouldn’t it be nice to keep the spirit of the season alive ALL YEAR?

But instead of getting ahead of myself and trying to orchestrate what would probably be a fairly large undertaking, I figured it might be easier to have a few moments of reflection as we head into the holiday season.

This Christmas, I am thankful…

that picking out the perfect gift for friends and family truly gives me joy and satisfaction. I think I’ve mentioned this before – but I am a rockstar gift giver — seriously.

for old family holiday traditions like meatless Christmas Eve dinners.

for the new holiday traditions that The Mister and I are creating together – like Christmas cookie decorating and holiday adventures.

that listening to Ann Murray and Luther Vandross brings me back to dancing in the living room with Mom and will serve as the soundtrack for my kids’ Christmas season one day, as well.

that watching the Nutcracker still makes me feel like a Sugar Plum Fairy.

that I have the privilege in leading everyone in song – as I cantor Christmas Eve mass every year.

for Santa – because you are never too old to stop believing.

for Christmas movies like Elf, Love Actually, The Grinch (old school version), Frosty, The Santa Clause and ChristmasVacation – because it doesn’t get any better curling up in your pjs with hot cocoa and watching Christmas flicks.

for radio stations that play Christmas music all.day.long. God bless the Mister for letting them rule our radio airwaves

that I still cry every time I hear the song “The Christmas Shoes.”

for my Mister, who does everything he can to ensure all my Christmas ideas and activities come to fruition.

for my parents, who instilled in me the true meaning of Christmas and always did everything they could to make the season special for my brother and I. (even when we woke them up at 5am to open presents)

(and without getting to religious on you…) for Jesus – because without him, there wouldn’t be a Christmas to celebrate.

What will you be thankful for this Christmas (or Hanukkah!)?

Good morning, friends!

Thanks so much for taking the time to add to the conversation yesterday — I LOVE hot topics such as these!

Yesterday I was off work, which means I had the opportunity to tackle a lot of the things I’ve been putting off. One being an appointment with the graduate coordinator from my Master’s program (received masters in January 08). See, I’m starting to get pretty serious about this PhD thing and I’m at the point where I’m evaluating programs, getting materials together, etc.

Anyway, the whole process has really got me thinking on how thankful I am that I have these opportunities for higher education. And with school starting up for many of you over the next few weeks, I thought this would be a good time to reflect on our education experience and give thanks for the opportunities we’ve been fortunate enough to receive. I think it’s easy to forget all of that when we’re cursing our annoying professor or cramming for an exam, but this week, think about all you’ve learned in college or high school and how it’s helped you develop.

See, I’m one of those nerds that has always LOVED school. The thought of shopping for school supplies with my mom still makes me smile – new pencils, shiny folders, bright highlighters - I loved it all (ladies- remember Lisa Frank?!) The theme continued when I went to college and I got more and more excited with each new text book I picked up from the book store (I know, I have issues – like I said, BIG dork!). Anyway, ’school’ has always held a special place in my heart and I can’t wait to one day work at one! (remember, I want to be a college professor…)

And while we’re on the topic, I’d like to give a big shout out to all the teachers out there (love you, Mom!) who go to work every day with the intent to develop young (or old!) minds. You really have one of the most important jobs on this earth. Thank you.

Miss G, Miss D, Mr. Curtiss, Dr. Sabbath, and Prof. Stashower: thank you for everything, you have no idea how big of a part you played in my life. You are why I one day want to teach.

image credit: kernpc.org

Your turn — what teacher or professor would you like to thank, and why?