Another year comes to a close. In some ways I am happy to be saying goodbye to this year, but also grateful for the Lord's continuos work in my heart. This Christmas season, I tried so much to distract myself from the sadness that laid heavy in my heart. I think I overdid it, hence me being sick the past week (but giving me time to catch up on the blog). Last Christmas I was anticipating our third child being a part of our celebration and joining the other two under the tree. But the Lord had different plans for us, good plans. Although I found myself tearful at times, it was easy to recount the Lord's faithfulness to our family. He has been with us.
We did the advent/countdown to Christmas and the kids enjoyed the fun activities. Danny and I had a lot of fun with it, especially now that they can enjoy more things. One thing we initiated was reading through the Jesus Story Book Bible through the month of December. It's so exciting to see that Noah is starting to understand the Christmas story and the reason why we celebrate Christmas. On Christmas Eve, when he saw the presents under the tree, he asked, "are all those presents for Jesus?" We had multiple opportunities to talk about Jesus and why he came. It was so helpful for my soul to speak of these things. It really put things into perspective and convicted me of what I was truly celebrating in my own heart. I am so grateful for the joy that we have because of the birth of Jesus and for a Savior that not only came for us but is still with us today.
Forgot this last month, but our thankful tree came to a close
gingerbread house
picnic dinner by the tree, this was so fun for the kids
Snow!
our friends
I told Noah to throw a snowball at me, good aim!
she prefers eating it
backyard view
birthday party for Jesus
baking with mommy
learning to make paper snowflakes
Christmas cookies at the mom-mom & grandpas
Christmas morning
A fun surprise for dad
