It's Christmas Time!!

Well, it is finally here. CHRISTMAS!! The time of year that all kids- big and small- can't wait for. Christmas is such an exciting time of the year for so many reasons. First, it is a time when family and friends make time to get together and spend time with each other and most of the time we don't even watch the clock for when it is time to go. Today, Christmas Eve, my friend, Kristie, had a group of us "girls" and our children over to her house. The kids played and decorated Christmas cookies. The girls talked about not having to work, all the trips to Wal-Mart that we had taken saying, "This is the last one", and the presents that we can't wait for our children to see. Thank you, Kristie, for a wonderful afternoon. You did a great job organizing everything and allowing all of those children to run through your house and yard. You're the greatest friend :). Tonight we will go to Shay's grandparents for Christmas Eve dinner and open presents. Then tomorrow, Christmas Day, my family- parents, brother and sister-in-law, sister and brother-in-law- will come to our house so that the boys don't have to leave their new toys (and so that we don't have to drag them with us) to open presents and for brunch. I can't wait for all of us to be together. Every year I wonder if next year it will be the same. Each year we lose someone that is dear to us whether it be family or friends. In August one of my dear friends, Nikki, lost a battle with cancer and went to be with Jesus. I am jealous that this year she is spending Christmas with Jesus. On the other hand, I am thankful that I am with my family. Her precious children will be spending Christmas without a mom but with a great support of family and close friends. I've had friends lose grandparents, in-laws, and other friends. You just never know what the next year holds.
Second, it is a time of year when we will stop and remember why we celebrate Christmas. Our Savior was born on this day- in a stable. With animals and straw around her Mary was made as comfortable as possible to give birth to Jesus. After giving birth to two children my appreciation and love for her is over flowing. He wasn't born in the greatest surroundings nor did he die in a hospital bed surrounded by family and friends with a medicine drip making him comfortable. He died on a wooden cross with nails in his hands and sword that pierced his side. Every day I am amazed at how much he loves us and how gracious he is to forgive our every mistakes :). Christmas means so much more to me as an adult than it did as a child. Each year it means more and more for the most important reason- Jesus' birth.
May you have a Merry Christmas with lots of fun!!