It’s Beginning to Look...

Guess what he asked for?

It’s amazing how a few decorations make a difference.

What’s your favorite Christmas decoration?

I have to say that the nativity that my parents still have is pretty much my favorite. It’s the true meaning of the season, afterall.

But I do also have a teeny-tiny Christmas tree that was given to me by a cute little family that also ranks up there. One year when I mentioned not having a tree, they showed up with the cutest little tree with lights and candy decorations. It made my year and as it was aglow on our mantle tonight I was reminded how special that occasion was. Thanks again Pipes family! You’re generosity and friendship still shines strong today! I’ll add a photo of it in the morning.

And that felt tree for my kiddos is always a hit.

It truly is beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

What I’m Listening To These Days:

I labeled myself a music nerd this morning when I shared this picture with friends:

I was actually looking for a Dolly Parton Christmas album on Apple Music but found this gem and enjoyed it while getting ready this morning. 

Do any of you just love music like this music nerd does? What are you currently obsessed with? I’m always looking for more music to explore and experience. 

Obviously, I’m listening to Kelly Clarkson lately.  

Her new album is candy to my ears. It is just so soulful and fun. I am always still in awe at how that girl can sing. 

I am often listening to Christian Rock music. It just makes me feel the spirit and brings light into a sometimes dark world. My favorite two albums are “Lifer” by MercyMe

And Casting Crowns new Christmas Album, “It’s Finally Christmas.”

I also am really enjoying Jiil and Kate’s Podcast, “Girls Just Pod to Have Fun.”

 

If you haven’t discovered their music, you must go to your streaming app of choice and check out the song “Same Side”. All of their music is awesome but that song just gets me. Ellis even loves to sing it because he finds it fun that they say brother a lot!!! Four year olds are funny. But seriously, these two and there harmonies. Smooth and amazing. Check them out. Their podcast is entertaining and funny and their music is a treat. You’re welcome. They are also blogging here.  They are the inspiration for me to blog everyday this month. They are better at not missing days than I am. (Oh well, it is what it is.)

Don’t forget to let me know what you are listening to either in the comments here or on instagram, Twitter or Facebook!

Happy listening!

A Tired Mommy

Short post. Long week. Glad it’s Friday and pizza will be on its way shortly. What are your weekend plans? I’m just gonna enjoy being a mommy sandwich.  Maybe I’ll pack a box or two. Maybe not. It’s closing week next week. Monday we sell, Thursday we buy. The journey to new home ownership is exhausting. But, the good news is that it is sounding like new carpet and electrical will get done in time to move in the first week of January. The stars are aligning and I need to keep remembering just how blessed we truly are. 

Twinkie

The best things about Christmas, now that I am a parent, is being involved in the process of making my children’s Christmas magical. Today this is what Twinkie brought to E and Z today. For E: Play Doh and an emoji backpack. I’m not sure why he loves emojis so much, but he does. The cars are for Z. I have been feeling lately that she needs some of her own toys. I get that all the toys before her arrival really were E’s, but I hate that she often has toys ripped from her hands and her brother says: “Baby, that’s not yours!”  Twinkie is a tradition that still runs strong in my husband’s family. Each day of December, before Christmas, Twinkie comes and delivers little prizes. I’m still trying to figure out how it’s supposed to work. The balance of trinkets and toys to just treats is hard for me. The other hard thing is falling asleep without setting the Twinkie prizes out. Luckily, E is a pretty sound sleeper because the prizes were in the same room that he was sleeping this morning. Don’t worry, Twinkie is getting wiser and the box is now located closer to the drop off spot!!!

What are some of your favorite family traditions that are unique to your family? Please share in the comments. I know you all are reading, but give me a comment or two to read as well. 

The Christmas Spirit

Sometimes the Christmas Spirit manifests itself in ways that you wouldn’t expect.

Some think it lies in holiday music or in decorated sugar cookies.

Sure, the decor, smell of fresh cut pine trees and sparkling lights add to the feeling of Christmas.

But what about this image?

The crimson color a symbol of the blood of God’s only Begotten. The blood that saves us from our silly mistakes.

The Mohawk which is a symbol of this young man’s rebellion against any type of authority. That same rebellion sometimes seen in the pious of saints.

These lights a bit different than those on the tree, yet still a symbol of the Savior, who we celebrate this season. The true light of the world.

This image, though unique and at first glance not at all what we may label The Christmas Spirit but totally a reminder of what that Spirit should be about.

May we each look to those that need extra care. May we be a manifestation of the true light of the season. May we represent the love of our Savior and turn more purposefully toward Him and his example. (And not just now, in this season, but always!)

Love those who need your love most: the unique and those that wander.

Happy Christmas season. Let your light uniquely shine and light this often dark and scary world.

May the Christmas Spirit be found everywhere, even where it is not expected.