Feeling the Crowds this Season? Some Christmas Perspective...

Last week Jake set up the big nativity set and, following a trend set by Ben when he was little, all the animals and characters were crowded in as close as they could get to the manger. It just makes sense, right? I like to spread them all out so they are decorative, but the boys have it right …everyone was squished in to see what all the fuss about.

Also, instead of Jesus’ mother and father behind him, Jake took our gold angel statue and put her there like a spotlight on the baby. His mother and father were in front to worship Him. The angel is bright and draws your attention right away, right down to the little baby who’s only material items that very first morning were straw and blankets. The parents that were given charge over him – a kind mother and strong, wise father – knew, according to Jake, who was the King over their small stable. Beautiful.

I wanted this post to be like the angel, announcing His coming. Lots of times in line at the store, on the road, or at school plays we are squeezed in and forget what we are squeezing in about. I am not saying to give up the presents, cookies and concerts. He didn’t come to eliminate all that fun stuff, just the opposiite - hope and joy are the things he puts under the tree! When we’re drinking a hot chocolate or getting that right gift for someone we love, I hope your heart finds some of his joy, peace and hope, knowing that He brings with him all that is good…and newness for all that isn’t as it should be.

Blessing and Joy to all who take the time to read this (and everyone else, too, I guess). ;-)

Making the Move to Blogging

Last week I was sorting socks. The sock basket was full to over-flowing, so I sat down for an hour to tackle the job. Of the socks there, I found a total of 25 pairs and EIGHTY-ONE unmatched socks. Yes, I counted. Some I knew the dog had eaten, some the dryer ate, and some poor partners just got separated along the way. Still, 81 socks!

Some life application came to mind and I thought I'd post on Facebook. Right after that thought, though, another came: who is really going to see it on there anyway? The few who might be on when I post it? And such a silly post, a few likes maybe, if that.

So I didn't share. That has happened to me more and more. I like reading others' happenings, so I log in every once in a while, but even then I don't like to post because of the emails I get. Baby births are the worst...25 emails because I said, 'How cute!' or feeling like a hypocrite if I just pass by (didn't I want people to connect with mine?).

My answer? If only a few people are going to read it anyway, why not control the amount of characters I use, the ease in which I can post, and have a place where friends know where they can find me if they want? Viola, the Blog!

I'm a bit of a philosopher by nature, have a multitude of creative ideas every day, and can write somewhat well, so a blog seemed like a feasible solution. I would love a few subscribers, but am still willing to shout in the wind as needed. I promise not all the posts will be long and rambling, despite what the title says.

Hope your holiday is lovely and maybe I'll see you here again sometime!