Joyeux Noël

I'm feeling reflective.

Today, there's no pressure to be anywhere or do anything.

It would've been nice to walk around in the snow a little,

but it's been washed away by rain now.

Monday, I'll probably want to go out and do something.

Like use my JoAnn Fabric & Craft

and Hobby Lobby gift certificate.

And create something because I have beautiful leisure time.

But today, it feels really, really nice to just be still.

And stay at home with my family.

I think Christmas is officially my favorite holiday.

I love finding and chopping down our own real Christmas tree.

And the sweet smell of pine.

I love the parties with friends.

Which include {but are not limited to} Christmas caroling,

Dirty Santa gift exchanges, and watching the movie "Elf".

And maybe even super-soaking certain young men who made non-jumpy me scream...

I love putting up Christmas cards

and family pictures on our closet door.

And reading all the letters.

It's so good to hear from our distant friends and family.

I love the music.

Especially from incredibly talented people in my stake,

and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.

I love the star on top of our tree.

And pausing by the living room before I go to bed

to remind myself why it's there.

I love the memories and traditions my parents have instilled in me.

I really miss my extended family this year. It's bittersweet.

But I'm grateful that I'm not lonely.

Most of all, I love my Savior.

I'm grateful for this special time of year

to remember His birth, and all that He is.

Although Christmas doesn't last all year long,

I know that His love is never far away.

I hope you're having a very Merry Christmas.

I think I'll go snuggle up with a book now.