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Every Little Thing by April Jeppson

Today as I write this, I’m wishing that we were having a two-way conversation. I don’t mind monologuing, but I have questions I want to ask, followed by lighthearted discussion. I wish there was a way for me to peek into your lives for a change. A chance for me to hear about your week or what weighs heavy on your mind.

If you were here, the first thing I’d ask is “What’s your favorite Christmas song?”

Is it a song I’ve heard of? Is it also one of my favorites? Perhaps you can’t pick just one because you enjoy so many. Or maybe you can’t pick one because you don’t like any of them. In fact, you may not enjoy or celebrate Christmas at all. Your response has the power to change the trajectory of our conversation.

Within minutes we could be laughing at a story you’ve shared. We could be humming and coming up with names for our impromptu acapella group. I could be watching your face light up as you tell me about seeing your grandchildren sing last week in church. Or I could be learning about the other holidays you celebrate, (which will then prompt me to do all sorts of research on the new things I’ve just learned).

In my position, I often find myself in situations where small talk is necessary. In all honesty there are probably 87 things that I am better skilled at.

However, I need to improve, so I have been practicing. My apologies if you have been subject to one of my awkward practice sessions. Try me again in a few months, I should be better by then.

I actually enjoy talking with people, but I want to get to know them. I want there to be vulnerabilities and honesty. I want to see their expression and body language change with the topics. I want them to understand that this conversation is important to me.

Since you’re not here and I can’t inquire about your favorite Christmas song, I suppose I’ll tell you about some of mine. “White Winter Hymnal” by Pentatonix is one of those songs I can listen to on repeat, and it puts me in trance. If you have labor-intensive food to prepare, like kneading bread, I recommend it. Honestly, I’m not sure if there’s a holiday song they sing that isn’t amazing.

Another on the list is Mariah Carey’s “All I want for Christmas is you.” When I hear it, I’m compelled to dance and sing along. It just makes me happy. I know this song is actually hated by some, so informing you of this has the potential for starting a heated debate. However, you’re not here, so there is no follow up discussion that this topic will provoke. It’s a bummer really — we could have talked for quite some time.

I hope during this holiday week you are able to enjoy some much-needed, in-person, light-hearted conversation. Merry Christmas everyone!

Albert Lean April Jeppson is a wife, mom, coach and encourager of dreams. Her column appears every Saturday.

Read more at: https://www.albertleatribune.com/2023/12/april-jeppson-take-time-with-your-children-while-young/