This Christmas

We've had a lot of rain and frost finally around here. The weather thought it was supposed to summer all the way through November. I love that our lights plug in to our outlet outside and are wired to a switch in the garage. Turning on and off the Christmas lights is easier than ever! Brian found an outlet to do the same for the tree inside, its on a switch.:) Rah and Papa gave us their big tree so we have been enjoying two this year.:) I'm glad I shopped Black Friday, its crazy out there. Even shopping for groceries and going to store on date night yield black Friday like lines. Amazon is great for purchasing on line and I fee l so blessed to have time to service others , attend the temple, and enjoy Christmas. 

We are so blessed with the conveniences of life and the strength we have from practicing principles we learn in church and through  personal study. We had a lovely dinner and program about the miracles of Christ last Thursday. The program consisted of speakers sharing with us scriptures and testimony of the miracles of healing, forgiveness, and sealing power of the priesthood(families being together in the next life). I gave the closing comments and loved the beautiful music performed there and the spirit that was shared. It helped me for the next morning reading about and seeing photos of a terrible shooting at an elementary school in CT.  Like many I cried and felt mourning for the precious lives that were cut short. Also, for the families that would remain and all those hurt by the situation. I did however remember how we had just heard and testified of Christ's healing influence. Of course I am mourning, but it helped ease the pain a little to know of the gospel plan and Christ's important part in healing and making things right in all circumstances.

This Christmas I am taking President's Monson's advice to ask what can we give to our Savior. Obedience to his commandments, service in his kingdom, and love to all those around me. Another admonition  was given to treat others with kindness and not have contention in our homes and in our hearts. I love my family deeply and I know Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ loves us all as well. I am learning, but I believe it will be a Merry Christmas this year especially as we strive to focus on what matters most, and loving others.