Sunday, December 26, 2010


I can't believe that Christmas was yesterday! It was so wonderful. Every year, I think that Christmas can't get any better, and every year, it does. haha God is cool like that. :)

We have so many family traditions that help to make Christmas so special. Besides spending all day in my pjs, we have our extended family over for a delicious dinner of roast beef, Yorkshire pudding, mashed potatoes, etc. Soooo yummy! Afterwards, there are ginger bread cookies, chocolate cream pie, and tea. Oh, and candy canes! The house always looks so pretty too, especially with the giant tree, garlands on the banisters, and the fancy dinner table, which is decorated with a ruby red tablecloth, snowflakes, and candles.

Another tradition, that my friend and I started this year, is a pj run. Since we both have colds right now, and it was pretty warm outside yesterday, it was a short run. Of course, we managed to laugh the whole way though, just like we always do when we're together. It was another bright spot in my day, and I'm looking forward to our Christmas pj runs in the future!

I think that my favorite part of the day, though, every year, is when everyone is sitting at the table, halfway through the delicious food, and the stories are in full swing. I learn so much, and laugh so hard! Everyone is so eager to share and have a good time. I know, without a doubt, that we're all loved.

Praise God for Christmas time, and for incredible family members and friends!

Friday, December 10, 2010

So close!

I finished my 4th final this morning. 4 finals, 4 As. So far, so good. I have 2 more coming up: one on Monday, one on Tuesday, and then I'm home free for a month! :D I'm working every day next week though, and then going out of town, so my "free days" won't really start until after Christmas. Wow.

Last night, after a long day of test taking, studying, volleyball, and craziness, I made myself some peppermint tea and toast, and walked into the living room to sit next to our Christmas tree. It's 12 ft tall, and completely covered in twinkling lights that look like stars. They shine so brightly that it's almost like a little piece of Heaven landed in our house. It's so beautiful.

There's just something about Christmas time that transforms the world. Even though it's stressful, (shopping, finals, extra hours at work) I can't help but be joyful. There's so much hope and promise! Every year, I'm amazed at how Christmas can transform everything that's going on in my life. Hopefully it does the same for you!

This Christmas, I pray that God gives you an extra dose of happiness and peace. Rest in the knowledge that Jesus came into the world to save you, and that everything is in His hands. Your past, present, and future belong to Him, and He will never disappoint you. :)