“Don’t Go Nutty on Us, Mom”

I’ve been locked up in my office a lot this summer. The good news, I’m under contract to write a Christmas book. The bad news, the release date is this fall, which leaves me with only a few weeks to finish writing it. And...it’s July with high heat and humidity, too.

Last month, I enjoyed a wonderful two day break from being alone in my office and mentally absorbed with all things Christmas. My son and family came to visit for my husband’s birthday. We love being with them, especially our two grandgirls, Elaina and Leah. (If you’re a grandparent, I don’t need to elaborate on the joy grandkids bring into our lives.)

“How’s that book comin’ along, Mom?” My son asked.

“Slow…and, different.”

 He gave me a quizzical look, raising one eyebrow. “How so?” he asked.

 “Well, it’s been so hot outside, in order to get my head into Christmas I actually found an internet station that plays Christmas music 24/7. I have it playing in the background while working on different scenes. Last week I went through the Christmas stuff in the basement and brought up a few ornaments to decorate my office with. And I’ve been catching myself singing carols throughout the day, too.”

“And all that helps?”

“Yeah, it does. But, it’s been kind of strange, too. I get so involved that I forget what month it really is. I’ll hear the wind blowing and look out my office window, expecting to see snow swirling, and then be taken aback when it’s so green outside. Or, I’ll see a catalog and mentally start making out Christmas lists for everyone. By the way, what do you want for Christmas this year?”

“Uhhhh, don’t go nutty on us, mom.”

I had to smile. I am determined to enjoy this gift of writing that God has placed inside me, and the process of writing, too. I’ve actually had fun creating The Christmas Underdogs (working title), however, I have to admit, it does help to love all things Christmas, as well.

These past few weeks have been a good reminder to me that, no matter what “season” we’re in, it is God who keeps us grounded. Whatever He calls us to do, He will equip us for...including celebrating Christmas in July.