Out with the Old

As the new year begins, some things must be left behind, some put away for another day, and some treasured in your heart.  It is always a little sad for me to take down the Christmas tree, for I'm a kid at heart.  I love the beauty and excitement of the season, and I rejoice that we celebrate the birthday of Jesus. 

All the balls, tinsel, and lights are packed away.  The place where the tree stood looks bare.  But in my heart I carry the special memories that were part of this season--The pleasure of having family visit, watching the excitement as the grandkids opened their gifts, the aromas of fresh baked cookies, the twinkling tree lights reminding me of the stars of the Wyoming skies that I enjoyed as a youth.

But now the living room has a fresh clean look.  It reminds me of the clean slate of this new year.  I am free to make this year a beautiful picture entertwining new adventures, new skills, and new directions.  So let the masterpiece begin.