Blessed

Well, it's almost the end of Christmas, ten more minutes according to James' clock radio. It has been a great day spent with family and friends from 8 AM until 10:30 PM. Lord, thank you for family, thank you for grace, thank you for coming to the Earth, knowing all along that your mission was to die. Amazing. My Christmas morning began as it has my entire life, with the family reading of the Christmas story in front of our nativity set, lit only by 4 old kerosene lamps. Following this tradition, we opened presents, enjoying each other's generosity and gratefulness. At 9:30, the Turkey went into the oven and extended family began arriving around 11. Lunch was at 2:00 with the grandparents, an aunt and uncle, a couple from church and two family friends. The abundance with which the Lord has blessed us is humbling. The conversation that ensued was enjoyable as family members related old stories and jokes were exchanged. Then came a rousing game of salad bowl and then some singing, Good King Wenceslas on the guitar, all three parts voiced. Then Bob played some carols and hymns on the piano as we all sang along. It's truly a blessing to be surrounded by family that is in love with you, Lord. We ended the night with a real treat, Coca-Cola in 12 oz glass bottles, made in Mexico (That means real sugar, none of that corn syrup crap) and a game of Quiddler. I couldn't have asked for a more wonderful way to spend the holiday and I thank you again, Lord, for your gift of great family, friends and food. Help me to honor you and what you came to this Earth to do, all year long.