Christmas Jigsaws

This is such a busy time of year for most and some of it has to be done in the dark. It won’t be long until the shortest day of the year and we can be glad that the days will start to get incrementally longer. Never mind that it will take a while until we can see the difference, we can still know that it is happening as we get on with our normal routine. It’s not until it crosses with a regular moment in our day that we realise it. When it seems that the days are forever short and dark, one day we wake up at the usual time and it is a noticeably lighter morning. The Earth has been making its way around the Sun whether we take notice or not.

But we are not there yet. If we wish it to rush towards us we use up our time and attention, and so miss out on what is happening right now. What is happening for you right now? Is it planning and shopping? Is it fitting in the socials? Is it winding down for some well-earned time off? Maybe it’s business as usual. Maybe you are taking each day at a time until you are on the other side of it (in which case I am sending you much love and healing).

I am doing a little of all the above, as well as that great winter evening pastime of doing a jigsaw. The challenge, the back ache, the satisfaction. There are so many sky pieces that you can’t imagine you will work out where all those non-edge pieces will go! Then the odd two will click together, followed by several more. My sons will walk by, pick up a piece and slot it in. My partner will say not to do any more without him! Any visitors that call in want to help. Gradually, over several days, the fuller picture emerges as the “one more piece before bed” turns into many. The busyness of the season sprinkled with quiet times of focus.

Thanks so much for reading this past year. I am always touched to hear when something has resonated with one of you. I wish you all good things in precious moments over the coming weeks. See you in 2026!