Christmas Cards and Life Lessons

Can we talk Christmas cards and life lessons? I’m sitting here staring at the pile of 75 Christmas cards I ordered and didn’t mail out. I was insistent on getting a family picture, canceled our appointment 3 times because of runny noses and a scratched face; and forced the pics on a really cold day in which we didn’t dress for the weather…just for the picture. Jacob didn’t feel well and wouldn’t look at the camera. Colton and Ben didn’t want to cooperate either because we were freezing. I’m irritated because all I want is a decent family picture for this dang Christmas card. Is that too much to ask? And here it is, my dear old friend and photographer, as usual, gets the shots of everyone. However, this time I’m the one who messes up the pictures. The one who is absolutely obsessed with getting the perfect family photo screwed it up. I have to ask myself why do I want this so badly? Is it to make people think we have some type of perfect family? Is it vanity? Is it coveting the perfect life? Is it wanting acceptance from others? I had to take a really deep look inside myself and talk to God about the real answers. The truth is I have a really messy life. It’s full of hurts and hang ups. You see, I’m an adult child of divorce and I’m still pissed off about that. I’m a momma to 2 beautiful little boys – one who has autism and cannot speak yet. And my husband and I happen to be small business owners. Life ain’t exactly easy over here. But whose is, right? So through the obstinate behavior, tears, and frigid cold, my dear old friend, Jennifer, captures the most precious pictures of the men in my life. She also captures what my face looks like 14 hours of the day. One of wide eyes, shock, terror, and surprise all in one look. I mean, if you were going to take a glimpse into my real life, this is what it looks like most of the time except for the washed hair and normal clothes on. So what do I do in this new year? I embrace it. Imperfection and all. Last year was a transformational year for my family and we are on a healing redemptive journey (thank you, Lord, for your grace). This year is all about growth in all areas for me. What a beautiful, messy life. I wouldn’t trade it for anything. And if you happen to get this card in the mail, just think of it as a Happy 2017 from the Hardesty bunch.

Love to you all,

Kasey