Happy New Year's To All

This was a Christmas of firsts for us. First of all, our nephew was in Marine Boot camp, so it was our first Christmas without his presence. Second, we got to stay home on Christmas day. We had the day all to ourselves. No place to go which is highly unusual for us. For the last 20 years we usually have four places to go in two days. This year was a nice change. We cooked our own meal and watched holiday movies all day. It was a wonderful, stress free day.

On December 21st we went to my mother in law, Betty's, for lunch. We had finger foods and ate too much as usual. Followed by, of course, presents. That was pretty much it for that day. That evening we went to church to see the kids play and of course, Santa.

Christmas Eve we went to my mom's for "brunch". We had bacon, eggs, grits, biscuits, french toast casserole and hash brown casserole. I made the last 2 and If I have to say so myself, they were yummy.

Our Christmas wasn't exciting or spectacular but enjoyed good food and great family times with our families.

Am I alone in that another year has quickly come and gone? It's amazing how quickly times flies by the older you get. I remember when I was in school and couldn't wait for Christmas to get here. Boy, did the time drag by. Now it flies by at lightening speed. Be careful time will get away from you if you let it.

We also have some firsts for the new year. Brian started his new hours at work. It's mostly like first shift hours which is going to be a challenge since he's worked second shift for so many years. I also have a new job within the hosptial and I can't wait to start something new.

On January 9th, our nephew becomes a Marine. Everyone, pray for his and all the other soldiers safety as they defend our great country. Hoo-Rah, Jesse.

We hope your New Year is filled with many firsts, good health and good times. We love ya'll.

Christmas Miracle

During this busy time of the season I stop to reflect on the most important gifts that money can't buy. I just can't stop thinking about the miracle that God has given me. If you don't know already, it's my husband. He has survived brain surgery with little complications, worked while on chemo/radiation and continues to amaze everyone who knows him. I could go on and on about the tiny miracles that have happened over the course of these 2 years but I'll stop there.

Here are some ways to Share the Heart of Jesus this Christmas:
1. Give the Gift of Encouragement. Instead of writing letters to Santa, have children write letters to someone who needs encouragement. For example, soldiers, nursing home residents, or hosptial patients.
2. Give the Gift of Faith. Read the Christmas story with your family. Talk about what Christ's birth means for your lives today.
3. Give the Gift of Peace. In the midst of the hustle and bustle of the season, set aside on "silent night" to be at home. Light a fire, curl up with a cup of hot chocolate, and take a few moments to rest.
4. Give the Gift of Love. Whatever you do, ask God to help you reflect His heart and share the love that inspired Him to send us the very best gift of all.
--Taken from JesusistheGift.com

Dear God,
Thank you so much for the miracle You have performed through Brian. I hope some who may be going through a dark time this Christmas season can be inspired by Brian. Jesus birth and death was a great gift and so is the healing we've seen. I just can't thank you enough Lord. His health and Your love is all is need for Christmas.
For God so loved the world that He gave.....John 3:16 KJV

What gift has HE given you?

Merry Christmas all and we love you.