Chris welcomed everyone to the kids Christmas program, "Dude, You hear what I hear?" He did a great job too. He also played Joseph at the end of the program. No speaking part, just sitting by the manger. Alex was part of the stage crew. He did good turning the police light on and off. All the kids did great! Alot of lines to memorize and the ones that had to worked hard. This was my favorite program they have done.

The adult "We have a Savior" musical was GREAT! When we first got the music for it, I didn't like it at all. Funny how God changes your mind over time of listening to it. As it got closer to the day of the program, I loved all the songs. It really turned out great and I felt the Holy Spirit moving.

Now it is just a few days until Christmas Day and I am looking back on the days past. Our prayer tree has just meant so much to us this year and we will be doing it again next year. We have missed a few days but catch back up. I feel it has kept us accountable to one another. Chris does not like to pray out loud and I understand that but he has been a trooper and has gotten out of his comfort zone. I am proud of him. Alex is usually the first to pray and he does really good. My boys bring me so much joy and happiness but hearing them pray over each other, over me, our family and friends...my cup runneth over! As adults/parents we are to teach the children but they are teaching me and I am learning so much! I am so very thankful to God that He has granted me this wonderful honor of being their mom.

Christmas is a time of rejoicing for we do indeed have a Savior. I can not wait to read the Christmas story to the boys this year. Jesus left all of the wonders of heaven to come here to earth. Why? Why would He do that? Because He loves us so much that He took on all the sins of this world so that we (yes, you and me) could have everlasting life with Him. He wants to share the wonders of heaven with us. Now if that is not a Christmas gift, I don't know what is. Thank you Jesus for loving us so much!

My prayer is for all of you to have a very Merry Christmas with your loved ones. Make special memories, take lots of pictures, laugh, remember those that have went on to be with the Lord (remembering Aunt Shirley), love on someone in need (a hug or phone call goes along way) and thank God for His son. We wouldn't have Christ-mas if it wasn't for Christ our Lord.

Merry Christmas and God Bless from my family to yours!