Wonder and Surprise

A Christmas Edition

Dear friends,

When was the last time you were delighted by surprise? Filled with wonder? This last week we took our teenagers to Busch Gardens Christmastown in Williamsburg, Va. First, I got to surprise my these two nearly grown teenagers, and then they surprised me.

I wouldn’t let myself hope too much for them to respond with joy, but deep down I really was yearning to see them excited. And excited they were. Their faces and responses reminded me of when they were much younger and were easily overjoyed by these moments.

The magic didn’t end there—my teens were thrilled by the roller coasters and each of us of was swept away by the beauty of the light display. Even the manufactured “snow” falling around us was whimsical and sweet.

Wonder and surprise are states we experience when our hearts and minds become like that of a child. Sometimes it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and hardened this time of year. Yet, part of the message of this season is a reminder that the promises of Christmas—of everlasting joy, hope, love, abundant generosity, wonder, surprise—are not meant for only some. They are meant for us all. Oh, that it may be so, not just this time of year, but always and for all.

For today, I send this gift—a final yoga practice for 2024. May you be well, friends. Morning Yoga w/Christa

Finally, friends, a reason to be excited and gift yourself and even someone you love with delight! My retreat to Sagres Portugal, September 28-October 4, isn’t quite full and we’re running another discount to start the new year. True Nature Travel is offering a $200 discount with the code NEWYEAR200. Scan the QR code in the picture below to learn more and sign up. Or click here: Embracing Delight in Portugal