Family coming!

We always celebrate Christmas with the family the week after.  Our son and son-in-law are both in pastoral ministry and need to be at their perspective churches for the actual holiday.  But the day after, they were on the way! 

The beds were made and ready.

Gifts were all wrapped and waiting under the tree.

Stockings were hung on the bannister.

Our youngest, Mindy and her family, were not going to come.  SADNESS!  It is rather difficult to travel so many hours with a newborn and toddler.  We get that.

But we would all sure miss hugging and loving on them!!!!!

One year in our young moms Bible study, we talked about our favorite holiday.  For me, it is Thanksgiving.  Most chose Christmas.  I said it was not a favorite of mine.  In fact, some years I have found Christmas to be quite stressful.  A letter to prepare, cards to send out, gifts to figure out....I love all those things, but it can just be so stressful!  But this year I found it delightful and joyful.  One thing that helped me was this devotional from Our Daily Bread.  And the prayers of  some friends.

Except for the fact that Mindy's family wasn't with us, it was one of the most enjoyable Christmases I have had in a while.  I loved spending extra time with Him each morning, focusing on the reason we celebrate.  Focusing on Him.  His gift to us.  Emmanuel, Christ WITH us!  

"Look to the Lord and His strength; seek His face always. Remember the wonder He has done."  1 Chronicles 16:11

FOCUS!