Nearly an entire pot of coffee in at this point and I’m filled with the cheer of another very early Christmas morning, an overly active bladder, and my mind’s own slideshow of Christmases past.

Each has taken on new meaning.

As a kid, the anticipation was palpable.

As an older adult, Christmas mornings are more reflective with my family and closest friends at the center.

Scattered cross country, I imagine how my kids and grands might begin this day upon awakening from their dreams to the realizing of a whole day of celebration ahead.

I’ll get photo texts and funny videos from Tampa to Seattle and smile along with each one like I’m right there in the moment with them.

We’ll FaceTime high points of today all the way til bedtime again.

Meanwhile I recline in the quiet of my living room with a certain creature stirring in my lap and my eyes on the tree I installed a month ago and will soon box up again until this time next year.

Life is alright.

I have all I want and need to put the merry in my Christmas.

I hope you find the same and celebrate the birth of a savior who loves you desperately and passionately exactly where you are right now.