The joy that comes with scented candles, twinkling lights, green and red everywhere, loving on family, opening gifts, and the celebration of the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ marks another wonderful time in life that will always be cherished and anticipated again.

One of the joys of Christmas that I just love is the excitement that my children express. Everyday is so much fun! The kids started the Christmas season by coloring a fun Christmas coloring page from the Daily Times. Joel colored Santa Clause, which brought up conversation about who Santa was. Ryan and I tell the kids that Santa is Jesus' "helper". He helps by coming every year to spread love, joy, and give gifts to everyone. Now Joel asks almost everyday, when will Santa come? We tell him it will be soon but not until we take the last figurine off the Santa Calendar.

Another great joy that Christmas brings is celebrating with friends and family. 
I love going to Christmas parties. We always sing carols, drink cocoa, and 
eat great food... love it! Ryan and I will be going to the Rock Box this 
season to see their Christmas production. I am so excited! I love that place! They have some of the best musicians and 
some of the funniest acts. 

Oh how I love visiting with family. I love my family and I thank God for them everyday. We always have great conversation. 
Now, what to get them for Christmas... hmmmm... I struggle with that. I never know what to get, but when I do give it, 
I love the joy it brings!

I especially love seeing my kids open their gifts! We try not to spoil our kids by buying stuff for them all the time. I haven't even had to buy clothes for them because I have been blessed by my sister in law, who has handed down her kids clothes. Joel and Harmony get so excited when it comes to packages. They pretty much love anything they are given. Joel even likes getting new clothes which is unusual for a child. He likes to look cool he says! 

The greatest joy of Christmas is celebrating Jesus! Everyday I worship Him and thank Him for all that he has done for me. During this time of year America honors Him, at least that is what Christmas was created for. 

I live and breathe because of Jesus. The life that He has given me is priceless. The Lord has given me more than I could ever imagine. The more I experience God through Jesus the more I fall in love with God. The Lord wants us to live a life filled with joy and love. Heaven on Earth is available for everyone if you just let Him give it to you. Lay down your life and give it to the Lord. He will show you what to do and how to do it. As Bill Johnson would say, "More of You Lord in more of me!" The Lord loves you. Ask the Lord to show you His ways and to help you to see what he was thinking when he created you!