I can hear them snore from their beds as I peek my head into the bedroom. Christmas Eve in my apartment is quiet and yet it feels inviting. It is something about the pause before the morning, the deep breath held in before joy is released. My kids have been under the weather for the past three days with intense fevers. I have been holding it down as I overcame a fever and cold too.
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Christmas Eve during the day feels chill. I have been counting down the days until Christmas break from work and school for weeks. I am blessed to say that this countdown has been worth it. The hours seem to have been moving slower this morning. The air feels lighter and less chill, but the fog seems to be cradling the area. The sounds of the busy highway carries a quiet sense of anticipation. There seems to be this in-between, but not yet the celebration, but full of meaning all the same vibe.
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I did not enter this next season trying to get belts for being one of God’s strongest soldiers. I entered into this season trying to become more protected. After everything I had no choice but to release this year. I had to decide what was worth guarding and what no longer deserved access to me.
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Thanksgiving is a special time for families to come together and express gratitude for the blessings of the past year. While the holiday is traditionally associated with an abundant feast, it's possible to create a memorable Thanksgiving dinner even on a tight budget.
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| Photo by Robert Andall on Unsplash |
When I left my hometown a week ago with my son and daughter, I promised not to go back to live. I spent one week in my auntie’s trailer praying and not losing hope. My kids and I slept on a cot in a small walk-in closet-like room surrounded by our belongings. I would curl my body into an S position for my son to sleep behind my daughter and me to nurse throughout the night.
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| early morning selfie |
I swatted away mosquitos and fanned my children with a piece of cardboard to ease their night sweats. For the past two months, my son has been trying to adjust to every hotel room and routine we created to survive.
You have made it to another month! Do your little dance!
Last month had its own troubles and lessons that have been learned now. November 2020 has come quickly. It’s mind-blowing to think about how soon. Thanksgiving and Christmas will be here.
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| Photo by Alisa Anton on Unsplash |
