The beginning of Advent this year was marked by another particularly special event which set our hearts and heads leaping into the Christmas season. Emerson wasn’t baptized as a baby and although we couldn’t come to a consensus on where that should take place when she was born, we finally agreed to have it done in the church she attends with her dad. It’s difficult as a mother to feel like an outsider when it comes to our children’s milestones but I keep reminding myself that parenting is less about control and more about letting go. As it turned out, this baptism couldn’t have come at a better time. The holidays can easily become a time of want and excess. We often prepare by indulging in things we normally wouldn’t and experience anxiety over everything perfectly falling into place. Emerson’s baptism was the reminder I needed to stay focused on the true reason for the season… to keep an open heart, to find contentment and gratitude for what we have been given, to patiently wait for what’s to come, and above all to love. Happy holidays everyone!