What a Wonderful Life

This has been one of the most wonderful Christmas' times ever. Ellis and Gina came home on December 20 so I had all my children home. It was a great week, the kids played card games, Spit/Spoons, Clue came out a couple of times, they talked music, listened to music, watched movies together and did lots of eating and laughing. It made this momma's heart soar. You know when you know beyond a shadow of a doubt that your calling in life is to be a Mom then the things that bring you the greatest happiness are those things that involve your children. I am so proud of my children. They all love the Lord and each other,and are truly a joy to have around. When Ellis and Gina read this I hope they truly know the gift they gave me by being home for Christmas. I know as God directs their lives they will be moving far away to attend Grad school so each moment I have with them is precious. This is Gina's first year as part of our family and she just brought a freshness to our holiday. I am so blessed!

Of course, for our family this time also involves lots of birthday fun.Danielle turned 12 then we had Christmas Eve. We opened the family gift early in the morning as Andrew had to work in the afternoon. Guitar Praise was a big hit here. I think Shoshannah and I are the only ones who didn't get into that gift. But Shoshannah had fun with the box it came in. The game was played all day and they had a blast. Then we had our traditional Christmas Eve meal of grilled Steak, shrimp, baked potatoes, peppers and onions,and fruit. It was great and that evening our entire family attended our Christmas Eve service at church. Then home to snack and play more games. Christmas morning dawned and it was funny. Shoshannah chose to sleep in until 6:30 and when we walked outside my bedroom door there stood Andrew, Danielle and Arielle waiting to go down and see what Santa brought. Ellis and Gina were quick to be up.

We came down and Shoshannah's new baby doll high chair, bed and stroller were out. Craig told Shoshannah that while she was sleeping that Santa and brought her presents. Her reply.. I don't mind. So then we were off to opening. Shoshannah got a new doll that moves and says mama. I wish I had a picture of her face when the doll first spoke. Priceless. The gifts were opened and then everyone went on his and her way to enjoy all their gifts. I cooked breakfast then started on our late lunch. It was just a lazy day of fun!

Then Friday morning I got breakfast in bed from my girls and the family took me out for dinner. Hey that video camera that I hinted at in a previous post well santa missed his turn and Craig gave it to me for my birthday.

God has blessed our family in so many ways and we are so thankful of His unending mercy and grace. And we are most thankful for the gift of our Savior. As I reflected on Christmas morning and all that it symbolizes, God just brought to me that this was all intentional. Jesus knew when He stepped out of Heaven, that He was coming to give His life for me. He knew me then, He loved me then, He willingly left the splendor of Heaven to die for me. AMAZING! As I was sharing this with the girls that morning, I said I love my children more than words can explain and there is not one person I would willingly give my children for. Aren't we all glad I am not God??

I hope each of you had a wonderful Christmas with your families and friends. We have one more birthday for this year. Arielle will be 14 tomorrow. Oh My!

I will leave you with a few pictures, video to come soon.