Christmas Ponderings

It has been getting increasingly more difficult to answer people when they ask where we are from.

Our beloved family and all the cherished memories of our child-hood and growing up, are in California.

Our most recent place of abode (not counting the numerous hotels, and the homes of hospitable friends) is Colorado.

And our hearts have recently been planted and are quickly taking root in Idaho!

This Thanksgiving was the first we have not spent with family, yet we felt right at home in North Carolina; and at Christmas we again missed our parents and siblings, but were welcomed warmly by our friends in Missouri.

While it would be very hard to top some of the sweet holidays I enjoyed growing up, this season was especially unique. We discovered fellowship with people who don't share our blood, but we are family because we are all adopted by God!
I wish I could pull all those I love close to me at will - that's a pipe dream I suppose, and unrealistic unfortunately.

But here's the good news: enjoying rich times of fellowship with those I love is like a little piece of Heaven here on earth. And even though I can't make those times or people last forever... Heaven is near!
We'll have that perfect pleasure soon.

Until that time, let the bitter distances cause you to long for Jesus and the promise of an amazing eternity with your loved ones,
and make sure you cherish the little glimpse of heaven that you have!

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At the home of our friends the Tjaden's, their Christmas tree was enjoyed for the holiday season, but then removed on Christmas Eve to make room for the celebration of Jesus birth!

















All the evening before dinner on Christmas Eve, the children took it upon themselves to create a Christmas pageant. There was snipping and tucking, tying and pinning, as the older girls designed costumes for all the participants.





























Mary and the shepherd were seen enjoying a few secrets, while Joseph waited patiently for his attire, and a little angel beamed from ear to ear.


















All Christmas day I had an urge to gather the children and play games, but what I heard from around the corner, was the piano softly caroling while the Christmas story was read over and over again. At intervals there were instructions on where to stand:

















There was the prompting of lines, and an occasional concession for one or another of the angels who preferred to sit on the couch rather than wait for their cue behind the kitchen wall.

When the rubber met the road, there was no way I could (or wanted to) interrupt the little brigade. They were so intent on getting things just so, and I'm sure I couldn't have captivated their attention that long! It was truly amazing.


































































































The production went off mercifully well, despite one angel who got stage fright at the last minute, and a shy Mary who had to be bossed around by Joseph - careful husband that he was.





























I was so blessed.
What a special way to spend Christmas!

"Happy Birthday to YOU Jesus!"

























I hope you were able to get a little taste of Heaven this Christmas too:-)




Love,
Momma Bug