A Full Stomach and a Warm Heart

My office is right across from the breakroom, which drove my predecessor crazy, but I love it. Especially today.

We had a Christmas potluck today at work. So I had a front row seat to the transformation of our ordinary corporate breakroom to a cozy and delightful holiday table.

It started with bright red and green tablecloths, followed by a careful and strategic arrangement of centerpieces, plates and utinsels followed by food dishes. After that, each dish was uncovered. It was like watching presents being unwrapped, complete with exclamations of joy and surprise as the content of each container was reveiled. To top it off, there was the savory aromas of honey ham and warm turkey floating through the air.

After filling up our plates, we made our way to the various conference rooms, which had also been transformed from their normal corporate look. Sitting around the table, we shared holiday stories and lots of laughter. Everyone had prepared their favorite or their best recipe, so we all went back for seconds - or thirds - to sample all the new and delicious food.

It was almost like a get-together with your extended family. A little bit awkward, a little bit chaotic, but also hilarious and enjoyable. I think we all went back to our offices with a full stomach and a warm heart.

When All Seems Lost...

When all seems lost...

...There are devoted friends who share outrageous stories and laugh too loudly with you, drawing the attention of everyone else in the Chinese restaurant. And who listen and nod sympathetically when you're down and need to pour out your sorrows.

...There is a loving husband who rubs your back and gives you yet another hug, because the hug 10 minutes ago wasn't enough. And who makes you a warm mug of tea, so you have something to sooth your insides and momentarily forget your heart is hurting.

...There is a God who hears your prayers, who comforts you when you cry in the night. And who gives you strength and determination in the morning to face the day.

My Favorite New Prayer

"Dear Jesus:

Thank you for this beautiful day. Thank you for my family, and my friends. Thank you for my baby dinosaur. And thank you for the GREAT time I could have with Aunt Leslie.

A-men."

-Sam, age 4