It is so easy to get swept up in the mystery of it all - the sights, the sounds, the smells, and that enchanting ambiance. Let me just stand here just a moment longer. Maybe a little bit longer than that. I could say this over and over and, still I never tire of hearing it. Early last week, I visited the garden store that also had Christmas trees. They gave me some pieces of evergreen that they had trimmed from the trees, sending me inside to pick the brain of one of their floral arrnagers. I have learned so much from them, from making my own wreaths to arranging a scene. Everytime I go in there, I learn something new!

I looked out the window this early morning and to my surprise, sparkle and glitter were not where they should have been. I was promised snow and it warmed up too much. I moved on to the he porch, standing expectant.The outside decorations are all lit up, waiting for the early school kids, making their way to the bus, taking in the beauty before them. The magic of Christmas has touched the neighborhood. I close my eyes and hear the voices of angels sing. Again.

It is merely 16 days, 22 hours,10 minutes and 27 seconds before Christmas and people are really starting to pick up the pace, unlike me as I am strolling through, keeping time with my steps, but, slowing down enough to enjoy the season and all of its meaning and beauty. Even from the back of the store, the softest of songs drifts through the air. Hallelujah!— Angels we have heard on high.

All I have are my words, armed in my mind, written in pen, stand by stand. Oh, yes. Still by hand. It has a different feel. Altered not by keys, backspace, and delete, I write, erase, tear it to pieces and start all over again. And again.

It is such a wonderful time of year to celebrate, letting go of any ill feelings. I say this in particular for a family that is separated by words. Peace be with your heart.

Man at His Finest

Edgar Albert Guest