Already an entire pot of coffee in and I’m filled with the cheer of another early Christmas morning, an overly active bladder, and my mind’s slideshow of Christmases past.

Each has taken on new meaning.

As a kid, the anticipation was palpable. As an older adult, Christmas mornings are reflective with my family at the center.

Scattered cross country this year, I imagine how my kids and grands might begin their days upon awakening from their dreams to the realizing of a whole day of celebration ahead.

I’ll get photo texts and funny videos from Tampa to Seattle and smile like I’m right there in the moment with them. We’ll FaceTime high points of today all the way to bedtime again.

Meanwhile I recline in the quiet of my living room with a certain stirring creature in my lap and eyes on the tree I installed a month ago and will soon box up again until this time next year.

Life is alright. I have all I want and need to put the merry in my Christmas.

I hope you find the same and celebrate the birth of a savior who loves you desperately and passionately exactly where you are right now.