Gen, I think expectations have a lot to do with anticipation (and cookies play an important role during the holidays). Anyway, I really enjoyed your post. Regarding things we're waiting for, like getting over past hurts, I'm pretty sure we can't just "decide" to heal. We can make things worse by dwelling on the negatives and picking at scabs, and we can make things better by honestly acknowledging the hurts and trying to move on in positive ways. But you can't just "decide" to heal any more than you can decide to be done having a broken arm. It takes time, and each case is different. That doesn't mean we can't truly enjoy where we are while we wait. :)

Joy, that's so great that you are familiar with that pregnancy book I referenced. I love how you put this: "...I love that it took the unknown and made it clear and real for me." That's really what we want more than anything, isn't it? The fuzzy made clear, the unreal made real, the unknown, known. I guess you're right—what I'm describing in my post is faith, but it often just feels like so much wandering in the desert.

Jennifer, your comment made me smile so much I'm sure I looked like a fool. Sometimes you feel like no one is reading (or no one is getting what you're trying to say), you know? But then I get three comments like these and everything feels right again. Anyway, your pastor is right—Christmas is only the beginning. And you are right—"Just when we get to the one character trait we pursue, there is another waiting to grow." And while that may seem exhausting at times, it is also very exciting (and I am very thankful to have friends like you inspiring me along the way).