The task of getting the house ready for Christmas was daunting. Even without one of those efficient mess makers otherwise known as toddlers it was hard to gain momentum. We had all grown accustomed to the ragged corners, and dusty frames on the wall. Sure we vacuum periodically, and wipe the counters, but having it all done at once felt oppressive. 

 

We relinquished holiday entertaining awhile back, so it was not about impressing anyone as much as making our grown kids and their spouses feel welcome. Come to think of it, back when we still hosted marriage group in our home we stepped it up regularly, at least in the living room. But those ventures expired for a conglomerate of reasons, one of which involves waning energy. It's dicey to invite guests and expect them to leave by 8:30.  

 

I began early in the month, if also with a light hand. Organizing one shelf, one basket of quilts was less overwhelming, and only spent three or four days on my to do list before being checked off with a definitive scratch. Coming home with enough groceries for sixteen celebrants posed a problem, as far as fitting it in the refrigerator. John stepped into the conundrum by emptying it before we even tried to fill it. He tossed freezer burned veggies, and unidentifiable powders. He wiped the shelves, and sorted the inhabitants. How much easier it will be to actually find fruit for smoothies. In the wake of his act of service, I stepped in to tidy one of his corners. Without crossing over boundaries, I did know where some things go.

 

Aurelle brought the nativities up from the basement, and started to empty the cabinet full of vases and bowls. John invested two hours trying to fix the light that shines inside the cabinet, finally realizing after contorting himself to maneuver a small screwdriver in an awkward space that the problem was a faulty plug. 

 

Zack noticed the communal effort and offered to help too. Even as his siblings were boarding planes he started to chop firewood, and brought the extra leaf for the table out of storage. 

 

What I especially loved was the effect that our efforts had on each other. Which is a gift we can open all year long.