Finding the Sacred in the Mundane

Finding the sacred in the mundane of everyday...

I heard a speaker to a group of young moms say, “It’s a good thing if you can find a way to put ruffles on your routines.” As a mother of four, that thought became a framework that often helped me to stop and savor the hectic pace of working… laundry, carpooling, cooking, cleaning and just all the everyday stuff that makes our lives work. The sacred was not the ruffles.  They helped, but the true beauty, the real sacred discovery, was the people God created and gave me to love. Blessings to you as you discover your sacred in the mundane of everyday.

Matthew 6:20-21 “But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (NIV)

Merry Christmas!

I hope and pray that everyone has someone to love and share this most wonderful day of remembering Christ our Lord, Jesus born as a humble baby. For me, celebrating this mysterious miracle is always shrouded in aura of holy awe. Though the busy days of cooking, decorating and visiting can sometimes seem to hide this deep spiritual reality, for me my heart is always so aware of this scared miracle….. Jesus.

Personally, Bob and I are most grateful this season to be in our little home in Fairhope; spending time with our family and friends: that includes three adorable grandchildren. I think last night attending our Christmas Eve Communion service at Christ Anglican Church in Mobile was a highlight. The church, beautifully, yet simply decorated with lots of candles and greenery, set the stage for the timeless melodious carols that we sand together as a congregation. Watching our grandchildren’s little eyes twinkle in the candlelight of hundreds of candles lifted high as we sang “Silent Night” ... well, I choose that as my most precious gift. I will cherish that memory forever, along with a prayer that they too will carry that memory in their hearts for a lifetime.

The tire swing, a large pile of fresh straw, art journals, a new set of markers, reading the Christmas book “Holly and Ivy” (thanks Ellen Duke), Natalie Grace playing her violin, Amelia’s self-taught almost perfect cartwheel, and Hunter’s early morning solo concert from his pack and play….these are all the best gifts, sweet and pure and priceless.

We play “Crazy Santa” at our larger Christmas gathering at my Mom’s house. The rules are you have to bring something wrapped up that you want to get rid of. When you pick out your present, by numbers, you then have to sing it, share it or wear it. This little add-on has given the game a little drama and often some really funny moments! One favorite, was Ashley, Stuart’s girlfriend, who got an old Alabama, Roll Tide Championship hugger. She threw it like it was a “hot potato” and of course that started off a hearty round of the Auburn fight song from several confused family members :) :) !

I just noticed that it is time to dress for our Christmas Day lunch, but there is so much more to share and celebrate. Would love to hear some of your stories!

THANKSLOVING!!!!!!!

We are preparing for our Thanksgiving trip to New York to be with our oldest son, Captain Nolan Gordon, his wife April, and their three little beauties…… Natalie Grace, Amelia Claire, and Hunter Hayes. Just thinking about those happy hugs and squeals of delight when we first see each other makes me smile!!

We will be going to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. This is a first for me. Now, I am wondering how many layers are enough for their weather.  Natalie Grace is making a list of “to do” things for Nan and Big B! Hunter is already making tractor sounds and will love the little Tonka Chucky Dump Truck I am bringing him. Amelia made a beautiful card, and her mother April asked, “Amelia, will you tell me about that card?“ Amelia said, "Mama, it’s a 'THANKSLOVING' card." I think that says it all………………

SO, HAPPY THANKSLOVING!!!!

I hope everyone has a blessed and fun time with family and friends.  Remember to give thanks to our God who made it all possible!

I am so grateful that my little sister, Melissa, had good reports and is resting at home with her dear family! I Love You!

Barbara, safe travels flying home!