Chestnuts roasting on an open fire...

Chestnuts roasting on an open fire,
Jack Frost nipping on your nose,
Yuletide carols being sung by a choir,
And folks dressed up like Eskimos.

Everybody knows a turkey and some mistletoe,
Help to make the season bright.
Tiny tots with their eyes all aglow,
Will find it hard to sleep tonight.

They know that Santa's on his way;
He's loaded lots of toys and goodies on his sleigh.
And every mother's child is going to spy,
To see if reindeer really know how to fly.

And so I'm offering this simple phrase,
To kids from one to ninety-two,
Although its been said many times, many ways,
A very Merry Christmas to you
  
I couldn't help but post those lyrics on here. Who doesn't know this classic sung by the great Nat King Cole? =o)

Happy December everyone and Merry Christmas!!
I know it's been some time since I last wrote and I must apologize for that. I've been on a bit of a roller coaster ride this last little while.

As we near the end of 2010, I've been reflecting a great deal on the events in my life of the past 12 months, as I'm sure many of us do time and time again. I have to say, it's definitely been one crazy year! ;o) I'm quite certain, we all say the same thing every time! LOL

I have to confess, my world has been rocked to its very core. As hard as I've tried to be strong, I admit, I've had my weak moments. 11 days from now, marks the one year anniversary of my Father-in-law's passing. With my own Dad passing earlier this year, there were a lot of "first's" without him that he would normally be a part of. I did pretty well until we got to his birthday in October and then Thanksgiving. He was with us just last year, so a lot of memories came rushing back. The bottom line is that I really just miss them both...a lot.

Okay, enough of my blubbering!! ;o) Onto merrier things!! Like Christmas and the New Year!!

I believe every child within us is anxiously awaiting Santa Claus' arrival to see what goodies he will bring us. What a beautiful spirit he brings with him...the spirit of GIVING. Isn't such a wonderful feeling when we think of others and do special things for them, no matter how large or small? It always gives me great joy when I can be there for someone. Especially when I can drop a plate of cookies or treats to them.

Depending on how you look at it, I suppose this time of year can bring out the worst in us too. It all depends on what you are focused on. But I hope it will bring out the best in everyone.

I know when we think of Christmas we think of Santa and his reindeer. Of Christmas trees and snowmen. Of presents under the tree and stockings filled with treats. But I hope most of all, that we will remember the true meaning of Christmas. Why we celebrate this holiday in the first place...the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Luke 2: 4-14
"And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judæa, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)

"To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

"And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

"And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

"And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

"And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

"And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

"And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

"And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

How grateful I am to Him for His willingness to come to this earth and sacrifice all for my sake, as well as the whole world. Such humble beginnings for a Heavenly King.

May your hearts be filled with love and gratitude, warmth and laughter this Christmas season.

Merry Christmas everyone!! May Santa bring all the toys and goodies you've been wishing for! ;o)

Love, Cheryl