This is my annual post regarding my ‘joyous is the price’ philosophy of life. We all know that everything that is ‘worth it’–the stuff that makes a difference–is hard work. We have done a lot of that hard work around this site for nearly 14 years. One of my faults is being a ‘what’s next’ over achiever type person. I am working on zooming out and observing more of the loveliness in the day. Today at the LHC was all about reaping the benefits of hard work and strong relationships. Our morning started with a happy group of women from the Hanover Lutheran Church in Cape. It was awesome to eavesdrop on their excitement enjoying the Christmas Tree exhibit. I enjoyed hearing, “Well, look at that…I would never have thought of doing that, but it’s very pretty.” Next came a visit from the curators and researcher from the American Art department of the St. Louis Art Museum: Melissa Wolfe, Curator of American Art; Amy Torbert, assistant curator of American Art; and Beth Rubin, Research Assistant in American Art. It was a delight to luncheon with these brilliant women, and to have them consider our participation in a special exhibit they are researching. We had a visit from KFUO Radio AND Lutheran Hour Ministries today. Finally, our own Kathy taught a German paper cutting class to an incredible group from Trinity and Zion Lutheran Church folks from Fredericktown and Marquand. Our volunteers: brought in a gorgeous bouquet of winter berries, prepared/served/and cleaned up a luncheon for our guests, gave multiple tours, designed our Christmas gift shop, planned future tours, and made themselves present to and enthusiastic toward our house full of company. I am so privileged to work with this crew. Joyous IS the Price-thank you, team.