A Lovely Christmas

I think after posting every day or two in November, I've come down with some serious writer's block . . . all that thinking and pondering about did me in! So, December has been bleak when it comes to posting and I'll recap the Christmas festivities with some pictures when we get back from our vacation, but for now I wanted to wish everyone a late "Merry Christmas," and an early "Happy New Year," as well as write a few thoughts.

Last Sunday was one of the highlights of this season. It was so nice to have my parents attend church with us on the Sunday before Christmas. I was touched by the talks and music; such beautiful reminders in the midst of all the holiday craziness, of the true and simple meaning of Christmas. After scurrying about getting everyone ready and just having "one of those mornings" on Sunday, I definitely wasn't the pinnacle of Christlike love getting out the door - ugh. But once I was seated (late), took a deep breath, and listened to the choir sing I was feeling much better.

One talk has stayed with me. The speaker reminded us to remember the Savior daily give those gifts that mean the most each day of our lives: a smile, a kind word, a hug, a portion of our time, extra patience, a note of gratitude, etc. I was really touched by her words and hope to remember that those are the gifts that matter most in life and can make such a difference in our families. Sunday's sacrament meeting program as well as the wonderful program in Relief Society (thanks to Chris for filling in for me on the piano so I could attend) was just what I needed to feel refreshed and focused during this week.

Christmas memories 2008:

• Liza's pre-school program - being together in our pjs, singing, cuddling, and listening to stories together with her class on a snowy morning.
• Time with just Sophie delivering gifts and visiting friends and relatives.
• Making candy with Liza and Caroline.
• Ryan's gift: "Doing whatever needs to be done without complaining" (it's been heavenly!)
• Watching Caroline perform as a "party girl" in The Nutcracker.
• Preparing some Christmas gifts and delivering together to a sweet refugee family from Burma.
• Having my parents here.
• Sophie telling us: "I know why we give presents at Christmas. It's because Heavenly Father gave us Jesus, and he's a gift" (out of the blue - she's our sensitive soul).
• Opening Travis' gift to our family - box in a box in a box in a box . . . the kids LOVED it!
• Watching Christmas specials under blankets with the fire going.
• Reading Caroline's sweet note to us on Christmas morning (really, the only "gift" I ever ask for . . . a little note :-).
• Our family Christmas outing (a play, the bookstore, and dinner together).
• Listening to Sophie play her Christmas songs on the piano over and over - I didn't even need to turn on the Christmas music.
• Chris' thoughtful gifts this year - way to go Love!