Keeping Christmas Well

Once a king or queen of Narnia, always a king or queen of Narnia. – C.S. Lewis

Even as a little girl, I can remember my father telling my mom, “You keep Christmas well, my dear.”  Over time we learned that it was not the giving of the presents, or even the receiving, but rather the details which she thought about the entire year to create Christmas in her Kentucky home. It is the excitement and anticipation of the special moments those dwelling in her house will enjoy. For her guests and friends, it is formal lunches with place cards and gifts.  For our family it is packages wrapped with ornately hand tied bows of silky ribbons.  It is the tree adorned with hundreds of glittery glass ornaments intermingled with those created during my childhood, and my father’s black electric train circling the bottom.  It is the dinner of beef wellington, tarragon potatoes, sparkling cider and chocolate mousse desserts appropriately displayed on her best place settings of china, silver, and crystal.  It is the ending of our meal with Christmas crackers, reciting the jokes inside and placing the paper crowns on our head.  For a few days, we live inside a Christmas wonderland that rivals that of any magazine or movie.  We feel set apart from the world outside like the kings and queens of Narnia – safe inside with music playing, the grandfather clock chiming, my children working puzzles, or reading while nestled within the Narnia closet.  This is how she keeps Christmas well.  It’s not about her, but about those who will open the front door and allow themselves to be entertained.  This is her gift.  In April of 2013, my father went home to be with our Lord.  Even though he is not here to tell her this year, I know that he would be proud that she is continuing to keep Christmas well.   I pray that you will keep your Christmas well, whatever your traditions may be.  And may you be reminded this year of who you are, joint heirs to the Kingdom…kings and queens.

Merry Christmas