The Christmas Season!

Tis the season to be jolly! Well, I am joyous and jolly because I celebrate the reason for the season. Jesus Christ is the reason for the season and that brings me great joy. In spite of what I see or hear on the news about how bad the economy is or how low the unemployment rate is, my joy and strength comes from the Lord. This year in particular I refuse to get caught up in the hype and commercial element that has been connected with the Christmas season. I refuse to allow myself to get stressed out about going to the mall to fight the crowds in the stores, parking lots, restaurants, etc. This year I will stop and smell the roses and praise God that my family and I are healthy and strong, that we are blessed in many ways and have a lot to be thankful for. I will try this year to give love instead of presents. Love is a gift that God has given us. He instructs us to love one another and that love is the greatest gift that we can give. He gave us HIS son, Jesus Christ. That is what I celebrate. So when I think of the Christmas season, I will no longer dread shopping or wondering what gift is appropriate to give to someone. I will give the gift of love and celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ!

My daughters and I at the Christmas Play 2008