We had such a meaningful Christmas this year remembering the birth of Christ and anticipating His second coming. We kept an advent calendar all month and added to a nativity scence as we read different passages of scripture each day building up to Christmas day. I was truly blessed with lots of special time with the kids watching our favorite holiday movies, baking, creating, reiminiscing, sharing scripture, singing, and giving. On the 23rd we headed south to spend time with our families and the fun continued. We made a gingerbread house at Mimi's house; it truly was a group effort (much more fun that way).
When I was growing up, every Christmas we made a video that was just plain silly. We had so much fun making these videos but as we got older the videos just tapered off. Well, this year the family rekindled the old tradition with some major silliness; there was a sci fi tribute and our own personal take on the Trans Siberian Orchestra--it was awesome!
We were able to attend a candlelight service at Mom and Dad's church and then come home and have a late night candlelight service of our own in the living room. Each member of our family and friends there that night had a special portion of scripture or narration to read as we lit candles remembering Jesus. It was a beautiful time together reflecting on the true meaning of Christmas.
The next morning we had a blast opening presents together and playing with all of our new toys.
Even Beowulf got in on the action!
For Christmas, I gave Alora a beautiful dress and tickets to go to the Nutcracker at the Fox in Atlanta. On December 26th we got all dolled up and headed to the big city for an exciting day at the theater. We began with coffee in Anniston with good friend Kenny and then headed on for lunch at an Italian restaurant near the Fox. The Nutcracker was spectacular! Alora loved it!
On December 27th we headed to the Thompson's for a family-filled day. We had a delicious breakfast (with pancakes made by Pop, mmm.) and then dominoes! I officially had the worst score in the history of dominoes. This year we drew names and all presents were homemade (although there were some different takes on the rules). It was truly a special time as we opened up presents that were thoughtful and made by hand.
There will be two weddings in 2009! My nieces are getting married and both weddings will be in the summer. We were able to discuss plans and celebrate together. Congratulations Ashley and Eryne!
All of the cousins had a blast playing together with all of the new toys. Even Poppie got in on the action!
We are truly blessed with an incredible family and I am so thankful for the meaningful time we were able to spend with each one of them. We love you all so much!This New Years eve we were able to spend time with some of our church family at the annual party at the Miller's. About twenty of us gathered in their home and shared the evening just talking and singing together. The most special moment came at 11:59pm when we brought in the new year with the song "Because He Lives". Beverly picked it and it could not have been a better choice. The song says--
Because He lives I can face tomorrow,
Because He lives all fear is gone,
Because I know He holds the future,
Life is worth the living just because He lives.
What a great way to bring in the new year. 2008 is now gone and with it many great memories but oh what a future we have to look forward to in 2009-- Because He Lives!!! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
1 comment:
You would think being in the same town around the same time each year we would eventually run into each other. Frances gave me the link to your blog. It's amazing to see how much Andrew and Alora have grown since we saw you guys last. Thanks for posting and Happy New Year.
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