Last but not least…I give you the nativity sets. Our main display is simply the Holy Family and we have had it for years – I still have the original box from Wal-Mart that is marked $9.88. Amazingly, it has made annual trips up and down from the attic unscathed. I have displayed it on
Year: 2022
Every year since Sarah was a baby, we have gotten a live tree. Trever’s preferred tree is a Frasier Fir, but this year we chose a Noble Fir. Over the years, we have had trees nearly fall off the top of the vehicle on transporting them home, have returned trees for being too small, too
Advent Word/Day 29 Emmanuel God with us….during the joyful moments of love and laughter. God with us….during the moments we are doubled over in pain and grief. God with us…during the fear and uncertainty of a diagnosis. God with us….during the utter despair of depression. God with us….during the brightest morning and the darkest night.
Advent Word/Day 28 The birth of Jesus is one of the most depicted scenes in artwork throughout the ages. Whether in print, on canvas, or in a creche, there usually is presented a holy family that is serene and beautiful, picturesque and peaceful. But birth in and of itself is a messy business – especially
Advent Word/Day 27 We often hear the term “restore my faith in humanity” when a person witnesses compassion or kindness in the world around them. But I have found myself in the last few years “restoring my faith in faith.” After my cancer diagnosis ten years ago, I began a slow slog back to the
Advent Word/Day 26 I am not a proponent of the power of positive thinking. I don’t believe you can will yourself out of depression. Or that a good mental attitude will heal your body of a physical disease. I have however, come around the tiniest bit to the concept of choosing joy. I am a
Advent Word/Day 25 Something rankles within most of us when we hear the term “obedience” – no one likes to be told what to do! And I would argue that blind obedience to any person or institution is never a good idea. However, when it relates to faith and ideals such as love, service, and
Advent Word/Day 24 One of my main enjoyments of this season is listening to music – from sacred hymns to more secular Christmas songs, I constantly have music playing. And I love attending both choral and instrumental concerts. Music can be inspirational, calming, reflective, and nostalgic. When we listen, and truly hear, music can be
Advent Word/Day 23 The Star of Bethlehem is probably one of the more famous “signs” in history. I have read various scientific explanations about the origin and movement of the star but it’s place in history as a sign of the Messiah is indisputable. Many still look for signs from God, the universe, or other
These are all the decorations which haven’t fit into other categories. Sleigh bells and wreaths of bells decorate each door. We have such limited storage space I often try to incorporate certain pieces, such as this cake plate, into my holiday decor. Again from my mother in law, this church was at one point lighted