christ - mas

i've just created a playlist for my itunes called "desperate for christmas". that's how i feel currently, i want that music pouring through me. i desire to feel the power that those notes and words bring me. it feels weird playing christmas music in october, i mean i haven't even craved my pumpkin yet. but the words of rest? of peace? of jesus? those don't feel weird, those feel comforting. those feel real. those feel right.

i am looking forward to the time of year where i can be very intentional in preparing my heart for Christ's birth. i am looking forward to the still of winter, to the dying of that around me. I am looking forward to the smell of turkey and the joy of ornaments. of cutting a tree and the "fight" that always happens. it used to genuinely happen, now i think there are some in my family that make sure it happens! :) the traditions both silly and serious. of the crisp mornings where i can breathe deeply in the wonder that is jesus' birthday. 

"i need a silent night, I need a holy night" 

the peace of the upcoming season is something that I'm looking forward to and looking forward to carrying with me past the season.

the smell of holly and the twinkle of lights and the little red, squirmy baby in a feeding trough. that's why i'm listening to christmas music this evening.