Yesterday was November 1, and yes, I put my Christmas tree up. There isn’t a single decoration on it yet, but just seeing it there makes me happy. The ornaments will come, along with the memories tucked inside the boxes. For now, I’m enjoying the beginning of something I love, without feeling the need to get it all done in one day.

And putting up a Christmas tree doesn’t mean I’m rushing past the season of gratitude. There’s room for both. I’m thankful for a home I can make cozy, for the people I love, and for the little things that give me something to look forward to. Some days, gratitude comes easily. Other days, we have to look a little harder. Yesterday, I found mine in an undecorated Christmas tree and the thought of all the mornings I’ll spend enjoying it.

Wishing you love and light,

~Anne Dennish~