little update

We are having ourselves a very Merry little Christmas. Christmas is more than just a day for us, it is an entire season. Our tree came home on the first and will stay up as long as the needles stay on. This week we are getting our cards out (each one handwritten and full of love) and the care packages have already been sent.

Each year, Christmas is a treasure, never getting old, never getting tiring.

It can be easy to fall into the "must get everyone a perfect gift" - "must attend every function" - "must make this the best year ever" mentality. But we've avoided it each year. There will always be something I don't get to (whether it be baking, visits, phone calls), but this time of year is about so much more than that.

The wise men brought extravagant, but fitting gifts for the newborn King. Things that Jesus deserved, but wasn't going to ever get for himself. I try to follow this pattern when giving gifts to Eric. There are things that he would love and deserves, but never get himself. So I try to put a few of them under the tree each year. I believe that this is in the spirit of Christmas. (and yes, I generally try to do three) Our tree doesn't need to be packed full or overflowing. There only needs to be kindness, love, and thoughtfulness.

We've been blessed this month with being able to see friends and enjoy great company. Christ came so that we may have LIFE! Life here on earth and eternally. And the month of December has brought much life into our lives.

Praises and Prayer Requests:
-A woman interested in the apartment below us came for a visit this morning. It was wonderful telling her about our great neighborhood and house. She seemed genuine and kind. We would be lucky to have her as a neighbor. (Plus, our floors would be heated again!)
-Eric's interview has been pushed back another month. So we'll see what January has in store for us.
-We are counting down to my birthday!!
-Every single angel on the tree at church has been taken. This means many much needed gifts going to children who would otherwise go without. Thankfully, a guy working at Target helped me with the colors for my gifts for the teenage boys we chose.
-Sushi's spot on his belly has completely healed and his hair is growing back.
-Eric and Friends did Christmas music at church this past Sunday. They sounded great! (sorry, no pictures or video this time, practice started at 7:30 am and I stayed in bed)

It is especially important at this time of the year to count our blessings. And we have so many!

family

a strong marriage

great friends

our health

jobs

a wonderful place to live

a church family

knowing the King that was born