Sunday, December 28, 2008

December Blessings. . .

December was an amazing month! I don't know where the whole month went, but with my children being able to help with the Polar Express they have truly come to understand the true meaning of Christmas.

Brayden told Santa several different times that he wanted Jesus for Christmas.

The kids definately got plenty for Christmas from everyone, but we definately focused this year on what they could give Christ for Christmas. It was nice to give and share with several of our friends and family this year.

At the North Pole we changed the message a little bit to focus on the pictures of Christ. We could truly feel the spirit.

One of the most touching experiences we had was when a little boy (maybe not so little, I would say around 9 - 11 years old) came and sat on Santa's lap and said that he didn't want his dad to work anymore so that he would have time to spend with him. It touched the dad who stood in the back of the room. Come to find out, this dad works a good 60 hours a week.

I kindof chuckled inside thinking that I wished that Rick just had a job, but then I had the thought come to mind that if Rick was still working for the same company that he was laid off from that the kids could have easily been saying that about their dad. Even though financially it hasn't been easy, I think that Rick being laid off from his job has put real perspective on our family, our children, Rick's health, our relationship and our priorities. Our children have truly enjoyed having their dad around and building a strong relationship with him.

In everything, challenges and good things, there are many blessings to be discovered.