Recap

I am still having a hard time believing that Christmas is over and tomorrow is the last day of 2011.

I've had a very up and down week.

Not just because we are approaching a new year, but because there are some things going on around me right now that have me feeling a bit emotional. It's hard to know how much one should really share on a public blog, but I know that many of these things are too much of my life to be put out into cyber space.

I'm one of those people that tends to hold things in and push them to the back of my mind when I am busy and have other things to focus. It's definitely a blessing and a curse. And this busy holiday season, as enjoyable as it has been, has also been a nice distraction from the things threatening to spill out.

In many ways, I am sad to see 2011 go. A lot of wonderful things happened this year.

We took our second trip to CO to see our dear friends.
We took a trip to Disneyland to celebrate our wedding anniversary.
We welcomed two beautiful nieces into our family.

(Top left: CO, Top right: Women of Faith conference, Bottom left: Disneyland, Bottom right: Josh's ugly Christmas sweater party)

We went to a few weddings, wedding showers, and baby showers... just a few.
We went to our first ever murder mystery dinner party...and it was a blast.
I started working again at a job that I love and am so very thankful for.
We went whale watching for the first time.

(Top left: a friend's wedding, Top right: a friend's baby shower, Bottom left: murder mystery party, Bottom right: my sister's birthday party)

We went to a couple of baseball games.
We celebrated many amazing people's birthdays.
We had a few friends get engaged.

(Top left: Disneyland, Top right: my birthday dinner, Bottom left: a friend's baby shower, Bottom right: Christmas with my hubby's family)

In other ways, I am so ready to welcome 2012. I know that in spite of everything around me, God still has a plan, and I know His plans are going to be great for 2012.

(Top left: Christmas, Top right: Niece #1, Bottom left: Niece #2, Bottom right: White elephant Christmas party)

Yet one thing I truly love about looking back on a year is that, no matter how hard it was, the good always seems to outweigh the bad. And that, my friends, is a wonderful blessing.

Be safe and enjoy celebrating 2012!



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Blessings

We had a very busy Christmas weekend.

We had a few different celebrations over two days. It was quite the adventure.

We stopped by my grandparents's house on Christmas Eve...

A Christmas Eve service at a different church (ours did not have one this year)...

Christmas Eve dinner with the hubby's family...


Christmas morning opening presents with the hubby's family...

(My sisters-in-law and my nieces)

Christmas brunch and dinner with my family...

Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol with our friends, followed by trying out our new Kinect...

(Two of the hubby's childhood best friends and their wives)

I spent most of this weekend thinking about how blessed I really am.

I hope you were able to do the same.

(Since GFC is disappearing in March for all non-Google users, you can either follow me through bloglovin' or fan me on Facebook to keep up to date with my posts)

Greeting Cards Have All Been Sent...

(Can you tell I've been listening to a lot of Christmas songs this week?)

I'm pretty sure all our Christmas cards have arrived to their recipients now, so I thought I'd share it with all of you...and wish you a blessed Merry Christmas!!

It's the Most Wonderful Time...

I've been a little melancholy this week.

I love this time of year. It's my favorite, in fact.

I love everything about it: decorating Christmas trees, hanging lights, receiving cute Christmas cards, wrapping presents, candy canes and hot chocolate, Christmas parties, and Christmas songs.

(At a white elephant party. So fun!)

But, this year it all went by too fast. All of November, I was waiting for the day after Thanksgiving. We even cheated a little and watched Elf before Thanksgiving.

And, as the days went by, filled with fun Christmas activities, I kept thinking I had so much more time to enjoy it all.

(This picture was photo bombed)

Instead, it dawned on me this past weekend that I only had one week left...and now, even less than that...

It makes me a little sad. Maybe because people are so much more willing to give and show kindness to others this time of year. Maybe because there's just something almost magical in the air this time of year. And, soon, it will all be over...

I've heard quite a few people make comments recently about how much they are looking forward to Christmas being over.

I couldn't be more opposite.

So instead of being sad about it, I'm trying my best to enjoy these last few days. Savoring the moments spent with family and friends. Watching the last of the movies I need to see, and listening to the songs I haven't listened to yet. Putting extra care into each package I wrap. And, taking the time to thank my Savior for coming to earth all those years ago...for someone like me.

Wherever you fall on the line, I hope you enjoy this week and the festivities they bring. Time moves too fast and you never know what tomorrow may bring. Cling to the happy things and try not to focus on the negative. Life is much too short for that.



(If I don't have time to get on here before this weekend, have a very blessed and Merry Christmas!)

Rediscovering Christmas

I am not sure if you are in the same boat as I am right now, but I've definitely allowed myself to get caught up in the commercial side of Christmas this year.

Oh, not that I'm going out and spending tons of money on gifts or anything like that...but my focus has been more on the things that have nothing to do with Christ.

We've been watching our favorite Christmas movies, we decorated our tree and put lights on our house, we've been consuming Christmas goodies, we've listened to a lot of Christmas music (a lot of which is about Christ), and we've participated in some fun Christmas activities. And yet, other than the Christmas musical this weekend at church, I haven't really stopped and thought about what this season is really all about.

The message at church tonight was called Rediscovering Christmas. As I listened, I couldn't help but realize that I've been putting the real meaning of Christmas on the back burner this year. Of course, I know that the reason we celebrate at all is because of the fact that Jesus came to this earth, as a baby, to eventually die for our sins. Yet, that has not been my focus in all of my Christmas happiness. I've been focused on keeping my traditions alive and creating new ones, instead of focusing on what Jesus may be calling me to do this season.

I love so many things about Christmas and this time of year. And, I know there is nothing wrong with that...as long as I'm keeping my focus on what it's really all about.

We were given a print out tonight with the Christmas story in chronological order, taken from passages in Matthew and Luke.
My sister-in-law suggested this afternoon that since there are more kids in the family now, that we should read through the Christmas story on Christmas morning.

I think God's timing is pretty grand.

I hope you are able to take some time in the midst of all the busyness of shopping, parties, and preparations to remember why we celebrate Christmas in the first place.

'Tis the Season

I didn't realize December was going to be so hectic.

But, then again, 'tis the season...

I am in the musical at my church this weekend. I got asked to sing in a trio, and it's been a lot of fun. Though I will be thankful when Sunday evening rolls around.

I started my Christmas shopping today. I know, I'm a little late in the game, but I just haven't had much time to think about it. I am really excited about the two gifts I picked up today. I'm hoping to post pics of them after Christmas. I think they will be super cute!

I got a new-to-me phone...which meant I needed a new case. I'm pretty much in love with it. It makes me all sorts of happy.

(Don't mind the shower head in the background. I had to take the pic in front of the bathroom mirror)

I've been seeing a chiropractor for some neck problems I've been experiencing for quite some time now. Unfortunately, the issues don't seem to be going away. I will post more when I know more of what this could mean.

I bought some mint M&M's the other day. They are definitely one of my favorite candies for this time of year. They've changed them since I first fell in love quite a few years ago. They used to be in the shape of regular M&M's...now they are big like peanut butter M&M's, which are also a favorite of mine.

My mantle is slowly filling up with Christmas cards. I love receiving them in the mail. I need to get my cards figured out and mailed soon!

My DVD of How the Grinch Stole Christmas (the original cartoon version) is not working right. It makes me sad...because I haven't been able to watch it yet this year. It's one of those movies that I have to watch every year.

We put Christmas lights on our house this year! First time we've ever done so. I love driving up to the house at night and seeing how beautiful they look. We are the only ones on our street with lights up, though...so they definitely stand out...which is not necessarily a bad thing. Kind of symbolic if you think about it...

I've been making myself a cup of hot tea just about every night this week before bed. It's been so cold! One of the things I love about this time of year...

I'm pretty sure I have at least 8 different Grinch ornaments on my tree, if not more (I collected them when I worked at Hallmark).

The baby is not what Christmas is all about...Christmas tells the story of God coming near... Hallelujah!

(I finally bought white lights to put in my Uppercase Living cube)

Have a blessed rest of the week!

Leaning In

A beautiful friend shared a touching story tonight at church about the last week of her father's life here on earth.

Even though, at the time, she didn't know she was spending her last moments with him, she said she savored every moment they spent together. He shared with her how important it was for him to pass down his faith to her, as his father had shared with him just a few weeks prior.

She said that she leaned in...she soaked up all she could...and she still remembers that week fondly...even though it was 15 years ago.

I love that term: lean in. There are things that people will share with us that we need to lean into...really listen to and digest.

I had someone share something with me over the summer, in front of a group of people, that spoke volumes to my heart. A friend that heard it...and saw my reaction...came up to me and told me to write it down as soon as I could...so I wouldn't forget those words. I did so as soon as I got home. I leaned in.

I'm also learning that it's important to have this same concept in my relationship with God. Many times I say my spiel and move on...or I read a couple of chapters in my Bible and get on with my next task...without taking the time to listen to what He may have to share with me.

I shouldn't treat my relationship with Him any differently than I treat my relationships with other people...but I so often do. Sometimes I will go days without talking to Him at all...when I would never do that with my husband.

I want to lean in...I want to open up my heart and listen...and take in all that He has for me.

It's time to make that step, my friends. Lean in...you just might hear something profound.

Thanksgiving, Birthdays, and Love

We had a blessed four day weekend.

We spent Thanksgiving at both of our parents's houses. It was nice to be able to see some of Josh's extended family that we hadn't seen in awhile.

(My sis-in-law and I...and her little turkey)

(Everyone except my hubby who was taking the pic)

After we went to my parents's house, my sister and her hubby came over to watch Home Alone with us. I remember watching Home Alone every year on Thanksgiving on TV, so it's kind of a tradition for me. I don't think they play it on TV anymore on Thanksgiving, though, so we had to buy it a couple of years ago to keep the tradition going.

On Friday morning, we went to a Christmas tree farm so my brother-in-law and sister-in-law could get a tree. It's surrounded by apple farms and cute little shops. We had a fun time walking around. We then ate another Thanksgiving meal in the evening at my brother-in-law's house. We played a couple of crazy rounds of spoons there and enjoyed each other's company.

On Saturday evening, I threw an ugly Christmas sweater party for Josh's birthday! It was so much fun to see how creative people were with their sweaters. We even gave out a prize for the best one. We played a lot of fun games and stayed up way too late, but it was worth it.

(I couldn't find a sweater, so I improvised)

(My husband's brothers and their wives)

(Jeremiah won the contest!)

Sunday morning, one of my nieces got dedicated at church. It was such a blessing for us to be a part of that. I'm excited to see the kind of person my niece is going to grow up to be.


On Sunday afternoon, we went over to my parents's house to celebrate my mom's birthday (she and Josh share the same birthday). My sister and I made lunch for everyone, and then we watched a couple of movies.
When we got home, we decorated our Christmas tree!




By the end of this weekend, I was exhausted! But, it was such a blessing to be surrounded by such great family and friends. I love how full my heart felt this weekend. We have so many things to be thankful for.

Baby Love

As I was in the midst of writing my last post, my brother-in-law and sister-in-law were at the hospital, receiving the news that their baby was going to be born that night!


We got to go see her yesterday.


She's a beauty.


My two little nieces have been so healing for my heart. This was one of the hardest and most emotional years I've ever experienced...and yet, it's been one of the best. I can't help but look around and see all the wonderful things I have in my life to be thankful for. I feel so blessed. I may not have a baby of my own, growing inside my stomach or in my arms, but I have such a full life.

This week is one that we all stop and look at what we have, the things we can be thankful for. I wish I was this thankful all year long... God is so good and I too often don't acknowledge that. Let's be more thankful.

I'm Blank Because...

I love this idea that Little Miss Momma came up with last week. You can check out her post here.

I'm happy because...
The holidays are upon us!
I get to spend a lot of time with family this week
I saw Breaking Dawn this weekend
My niece is now 2 months old and is filling out oh so nicely...and my other niece will be here this week
We got to hang out with some old friends last week

(My niece)

I'm thankful because...
God sent His Son to die on a cross for my sins... (we watched clips of the Passion of the Christ in church tonight...so humbling and painful to watch)
I have some really amazing people in my life
We have a roof over our heads and a nice warm bed to sleep in
Even though we don't have a baby, we love each other...and that is enough

(From our honeymoon)

I'm weird because...
I really don't like eating my food with my fingers (I use a knife or fork as much as I possibly can)
I only like certain brands of bottled water
I only like waffles with peanut butter and syrup (had them for lunch today)
I hate trying new things...unless it's food
I keep all my bathroom items and cleaning supplies in certain spots...and get irritated when they get moved

(And, one more because I just couldn't resist)

What are you "blank because" of?

Thankful on Paper - Week Three

First of all, this month is flying by...is it really already the middle of November?

I can't believe it's already Week Three of Thankful on Paper either.



This week, I chose a dear friend to write to. She and I have only really known each other for about a year and a half...but she is one of my closest friends. She is really easy to talk to (we literally talk about anything and everything), and she's such a huge encouragement to me. I feel so blessed to know her.

Even though there is still one more week for Thankful on Paper, this has really helped me learn to be more appreciative of the people I have in my life.

5 Years

Tomorrow, my grandpa will have been in heaven for 5 years.

It's still hard with him gone...especially this past year. Things have changed so much in my family...and I wish he was here.

But, he is without pain...he is cancer free...and he spends his days (are there actual days in heaven?) worshiping Jesus. What could be better than that?

Still, I miss him, and I look forward to seeing him again one day.

(My grandpa and I...when I was a baby)

This day reminds me to cherish those around me. To make the most of the relationships and time I have right now...because you never know how long people will be in your life...or on this earth.

Hug people a little tighter, laugh with them a little longer, and share your heart a little more often.

Partyin' It Up

Well...not that kind of partyin'...

Friday night, we attended a friend's birthday party...which happened to be a murder mystery dinner! It was so much fun. My hubby's character was Dr. Indy Jonas (he happened to be the murderer), and my character was Zangelina Holie.

(I was told to dress like a southern belle for my character. I had this dress from my dear friend's wedding three years ago. I borrowed the fan from my sister-in-law, and the hat from a friend. My vial of "my ex-husband's blood" was tropical punch Kool-Aid - apparently, it's an Angelina Jolie thing)

(Megh and I...her character was Fasa Shone, and she was told to dress up like Cruella de Vil)

Sunday afternoon, we threw my beautiful friend Megh a bridal shower! There were about 50 ladies in attendance. We had a lot of fun with the games...and watching Megh open her beautiful pile of presents! I am so blessed to be in her life...and to be one of her bridesmaids!

(The bride-to-be and her bridesmaids)

How was your weekend?

Thankful on Paper - Week Two

For this week's Thankful on Paper, I chose someone who is very dear to my heart to write to.

She does a lot of things behind the scenes at our church and is amazing at organization. She is one of the easiest people to talk to that I've ever met, and she is completely trustworthy.

I wrote her to thank her for who she's been in my life for the time I've known her. I thanked her for the amazing conversations we've had.


She is one of those people that just oozes Jesus. She is amazing and I truly am thankful to have her in my life.

Join the party at Rachel's blog.

Taking Steps

Life is all about taking steps, isn't it?

We either take steps in the right or wrong direction...or sometimes towards the middle ground.

Whatever steps we take, we are constantly taking them.

These past few months have been all about taking steps for me. With lifestyle changes, involvement changes, relationships, and even how I'm spending my time...I've been taking lots of steps in different directions.


But, no matter where life takes me, there are certain things I know I must always take steps towards:

My relationship with God - He doesn't call us to remain stagnant and never move forward. We need to constantly be growing and moving in the directions He wants us to go

My relationship with my hubby - I have to pursue a deeper relationship with him on a daily basis. We have to communicate with each other and take time out of our daily routines to spend time with each other. It's vital to the health of our marriage

My relationships with everyone else - God puts certain people in my life for a reason. Whether they be family, friends, people at church, or the woman I run into at the grocery store - they cross my path for a specific reason. I need to make sure I am investing in them in the right ways, and taking the right steps with them.

How about you? What people or things are you taking steps towards this week? What areas of your life are you running after...or running away from? We all take steps...let's just make sure they're in the right directions.

Be blessed this week.

Sacrifice

Tonight was really powerful at church.

We have been studying Matthew in depth for almost a year now and are nearing the end of Jesus's life.

We talked about the last supper tonight and the meaning behind passover.

Even though I've read these passages over and over, and heard sermons about them many times, it just hit home in such an impactful way tonight.

On the night of the original passover, when the Israelites were in bondage in Egypt, God told Moses to have the Israelites prepare a feast with a male lamb. They were to eat the whole lamb, saving the blood to smear on their doorposts, so that when God passed through the land to kill all the firstborn males of Egypt, His people would be spared. This was how God freed His people from the bondage of slavery in Egypt (see Exodus 12).

Then you have Jesus. God's only son (male lamb) whose blood was shed for us to free us from the bondage of our sin. Now those who believe in Him are spared from God's eternal judgment.


It's amazing to me how perfectly God's plans fit together. The first passover was not random. Even Abraham almost sacrificing Isaac was not random. Nothing is ever random. God has it all planned out...and it's always perfect.

I struggle a lot of times with doubting God's promises or His plans for me...especially when they seem extremely out of reach or unlikely. Yet, He never broke a promise in all of the Bible...so why do I doubt His abilities now? After all, He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (see Hebrews 13:8).

I am so thankful for the sacrifice Jesus made for me...and for you. I don't know where I would be without Him. To think of how many sacrifices I would have to make each day for all of my screw ups...it makes me sick to my stomach. I am so grateful Jesus was the final sacrifice...the perfect one...so that we don't have to worry about all those sacrifices any longer.

Thank You, God...from the bottom of my heart.

Thankful on Paper - Week One

This was the first week of Thankful on Paper.



The first person I chose to write my note to is a newer friend of mine. We've only really gotten to know each other over the past 6 months or so. I really felt like it was important for me to tell her how much she means to me. She's an amazing encourager, she immediately stops whatever she's doing to pray for people, and she gives the biggest hugs.

Who do you need to show appreciation to?

It's not too late to join in the fun! Check out Rachel's blog for more details.

Building Up

With it being the start of a new month, I have some new goals to accomplish.

The first of which is to start (and stick with) a regular exercise regimen. I am sick of being unhealthy and it needs to change. I know it will be hard with the holidays around the corner, but thankfully, I'm not usually one to stuff myself on those days anyway.

Another is to be more positive and be more of an encourager to those around me. One of the ways I plan to do that is through this.

I'm also going to start by having this be my prayer for this week:


May we all encourage others with our words this week.



(I've been working on my blog layout this week and I'm pretty happy with how it's turning out. Sorry if things look a little messy)