Their Stockings Were Hung...

We finally have matching stockings!  I am not crafty.  I know my way around the craft store and sewing machinge, but those projects kind of stress me out.  So, I am quite proud of myself.  And, that's all I have to say about that.

Christmas Time Is Here

The Christmas season is rapidly approaching it's climax. At a balmy 70 degrees much of last week and the same forecast for much of next, it feels a little strange.  But, the Christmas season, with all the business, anticipation, and joy, is upon us nonetheless.

We have heard carols and wrapped presents.  We saw the lights and played with friends. 

We said good bye to others. 

We donned our Sunday best to worship our Heavenly Father and remember His son.

And we have enjoyed the bright sunny weather. We don't have snow, but we do have mistletoe. We have wonderful people in our life. We have the opportunity to celebrate in the way we choose. We have knowledge of the gospel of Jesus Christ. We know that He lives! I love that we can have peace always - especially on our dark days.  I'm grateful for His light that pierces our darkest places. 

I love the life and brightness that that light makes room for. 

And I love these two little boys with all my heart!

I'm grateful for December showers that bring...well they bring hours of fun for little ones and an afternoon of snuggles.

So, here I am full circle at the weather. Though frigid temperatures and snow are hallmarks of my Christmases past, I am finding joy in the newness of the present. In the memories of my children's Christmases, now and yet to come. It's the joy of Christmas that gives significance and magic to the season, not the other way around.  I can find that joy in rain or snow or shine.

Merry Christmas!

A Collector of Joy.

She quietly collected the small moments of joy like drops of sunlight. The more she collected, the more she saw until they illuminated her entire life. 

We made an impromptu trip back to Utah for Thanksgiving. I suppose the lack of pictures show as much about the fun we had as an abundance would. We were so focused on visiting and just enjoying being with family, that most of the time I forgot to take pictures. Even though we had some issues with colds and a stomach bug, it was a wonderful trip. I'm so thankful for family and the treasure of joyful moments we collected on our journey.  I collected so many moments of joy, that I still feel the soft glow of it.