Thursday, December 27, 2012

Happiness is...


Funny thing -it was the morning after Christmas and one of my waking up thoughts was "am I any happier?" The thought came from the idea that I had just received some very nice gifts the day before. Gifts that were given from the heart and I thankfully received them. The thought  came from the fact that the week before I was in a lot of different stores hunting for what I was sure would make someones Christmas better.
 It wasn't a rebellious thought.
It wasn't meant to be "Scroogy" at all-just a thought that I pondered a bit,than realized again that stuff doesn't make me happier.
 I am happier because I made more memories with my family. Every year tradition happens and new memories are made. I am happy because I am blessed beyond what I deserve. God has blessed me with the GIFT OF SALVATION & GRACE EVERYDAY. The gift of a beautiful family who loves me unconditionally (and that is a good thing,otherwise I would be in trouble!)
I love this quote from Francis Chan;
" Do you know that nothing you do in this life will ever matter, unless it is about loving God and loving the people He has made?" 

Now we are in that funny-like week between Christmas and New Years.A week long time frame where when I feel like I'm on vacation but I'm really not.

Usually, we are in Pa.and we do winter "vacationy" things.
This year we are home . My mind keeps wondering if I am on vacation or if I should be working....(it's noon and I am still in my PJ'S -if that tells you anything!)
The children are up the road playing games at cousin's house with more cousins that are down from Ohio.They are having a great time free from school!
I am truly enjoying being a bit of both.Vacationing but yet working. It's great place to be!

Do something fun this week between Christmas and New Year-make a new memory (or tradition) and savor it!

Warm blessings to you,

Friday, December 21, 2012

Missing Something?

It's 4 days to Christmas!
Are you ready?
I ask myself , am I ready?
I check my list,
1.Make candy and bake cookies
2.Gifts for husband,child # 1,2, 3 & son's girlfriend, a white elephant party gift ......plus more
3.Christmas tree up
4.Wreathe on front door
5.Pandora music shuffle set
That about covers the "normal" things on a Christmas list.
Am I missing anything? - I feel as though I am.

My mind goes to the Nativity set that I set out every year.
There it is - the manger with baby Jesus snuggled into it.If he wasn't there , I would say again, "something is missing".Something big.The main theme. The whole reason for all this celebrating.
JESUS
That, my friend is how I have to live my life.Not just during the Christmas season.
E.V.E.R.Y. D.A.Y.
Everyday with Jesus IN IT.
Not snuggled neatly in my heart-sleeping but awake and  alive.
Active,
speaking,
loving
showing,
guiding,
communicating with me & me with Him
So,I determine that this Christmas  I will  enjoy all the traditions,family time,twinkly lights,cocoa and all the wonderful things(yes things) that make Christmas exiting and joyous.
 I will welcome a New Year at the stroke of midnight on December 31st.
During and after, I will walk each day with Jesus in it.I will not only listen for His voice,but be obedient to His instruction.I will be aware of Him ALWAYS.
Join me? I would love it if you would!

A merry Christmas to all and a joyous New Year!