Surrounded by Love

I woke this morning, Black Friday, to a scene on my television screen that begged for my attention. As I sat petting my 80 pound Boxer puppy, Chesty, who happened to be curled up on my lap, I witnessed the familiar images of consumers pushing and shoving each other around to get the newest and hottest gadgets of the year and realized how much I didn't want my holiday season to be like theirs. This year, with welcoming Chesty into our family, my spouse and I were gifted with the beautiful notion that sharing a happy memory will never be born out of anything that isn't blanketed in uncondiitonal love. No amount of money, mass marketing appeal, or wrapping paper could make a person feel more special that the way love can. A dog lover from the very beginning, Chesty has reaffirmed in me, especially this morning, the true meaning of the holiday season and that is opening our hearts to the simple pleasures in life that cannot be store bought. Elated to be sitting on my couch, comforted by the endearing little snoring of my puppy and the familiarly sweet smile of my husband, I was reminded once again of what a fabulous thing it is to be surrounded by love.

And what better way to showcase that love than by making something that is all about it? Instead of pushing my way through angry mob scenes like the one that unfolded on my tv this morning, I feel a huge swelling of gratitude that I am able to shower the people I love the most with gifts made out of love. I am grateful my mom exposed me to crayons, glitter, paper, scissors, and all those wonderful, magical items back when I was a kid. I still use them to this day and am eternally grateful to anyone who helped make them a part of my core and ultimately helping me to avoid being a part of the rushing chaos that is so commonly played out in today's world. The world of crafting offers a nice escape to a peaceful place that only creativity can truly make happen.

Whether you are an aunt, mother, grandmother, or friend, introduce your craft to someone special so that they, too, can dive into that special place that only crafters really know. The place in our hearts that lets us create and share happy memories with those we love the most (oh, and the best part... avoid those angry, pushing mobs!).

Happy holidays!

Dennise