Unexpected Christmas Treat

Hey friends!

Years ago, the Lord sent me the sweetest friend named Patsy. She is one of those elegant, kind, generous types that has a gift for hospitality. I can’t precisely remember how we got connected, but I remember how special she made everything. I was a young mom, pregnant with my second or third at the time, and she would have me over for brunch on her patio. I still have pictures of the first one because it was so beautiful and i felt so blessed my everything from the food to the table settings and the serene backyard. I also remember how uplifting the conversation was. For a mom who spent her days talking to herself and toddlers, that was a huge bonus.

A few years later, Patsy asked me to give a devotional at a women’s Christmas brunch that she was hosting. I had no idea what to say! Who was I to give a devotional to a room full of women? But Patsy persisted and eventually I agreed. As I sat and scribbled out some ideas, a line came to me:

‘Twas the night of Christ’s birth.

Soon the pages of my notebook were filled with a poem.

Something about that little poem stayed with me through the years. I’ve revised it, shared it with neighbors, revised it, posted it on my old school blog, revised it, published it in a local magazine, revised it, placed it in my Christmas book…

This year I finally was able to put it in the form I’ve dreamt of for it for a long time: a children’s book.

My dear friend, Leah Coon, was able to illustrate it for me and our other dear friend, Venessa edited it for us. It’s here and it’s beautiful!

I wasn’t on track to publish a book this year; especially not a children’s book, but the Lord had other plans for me, and this poem, and I am thankful.