So far?

So far?  My Christmas break has been absolutely lovely! 

On Tuesday my family went to Mark and Lydia's house and had a small Christmas party. 

 

 

I snapped this picture of Katie, Sarah, Martha and Ryan when they weren't expecting it.  :D

 

 

I thought this picture with my dad was funny

 

Hudson wouldn't stop sleeping!  So I woke him up...

 

He wasn't very happy about it...

 

I thought this was a cute picture of Oliver and Hudson

 

The two little cousins...

Hudson and Abigail

 

And my favorite picture from the night!  :D  My nieces and nephew are so cute and precious.  I love them!

 



 

Hard to believe: Tomorrow is Christmas Eve!

On Saturday, I volunteered to ring a bell for the Salvation Army.  It was really a very wonderful experience.  I admit to being one of those who have skirted by the bell-ringers and tried desperately to avoid eye contact with them.  Being on their side of the bell though, I can see it differently.  When I go shopping next time, I will not only donate (if only just the change that I've gotten back), but I will make eye contact and say "Merry Christmas!"

I can see what it is like, to say "Merry Christmas" genuinely and have people walk past in a rush, looking at the floor, for fear that you will try to squeeze money out of them. 

I say "Merry Christmas", not to 'get' people to give money, but to spread Christmas cheer.  After all, Christ is the reason for Christmas. 

In essence, when I wish someone a Merry Christmas, I am wishing that they have a happy time celebrating Christ. 

 

Enough of my diatribe.  I learned a lot, from the short 2-hour bell-ringing opportunity.  I won't soon forget how wonderful it feels, to brighten someones day, by simply smiling and saying "Merry Christmas!!"