Christmas 2011 - It was Merry!

 
We had many questions about how we were "holding up?" through the Holidays and especially if it was hard and/or sad to be away from home. Rest assured! We had a very merry Christmas and although we were not able to be with all of our family, we were so grateful to have our parents here to celebrate with us!

This will be a Christmas I will never forget. Yes, it was much quieter and low key (I don't remember the last Christmas I spent in a house that wasn't FULL of kiddos), but it was filled with fun and joy and lots of reflection. I love this holiday and the focus it brings to our Savior, His birth and His mission. I was especially grateful this Christmas to know that I have felt Him very close this year, guiding and watching over our family and sending so many incredible and generous angels our way to help us on this journey.

I believe that if we let them, our struggles and challenges in life can bring us closer not only to our loved ones but also to our Savior. I'm grateful for the opportunities I've had this year to grow closer to Him through some humbling circumstances. I feel a peace that has come from relinquishing control and knowing that He is in charge. Discussing Jesus's birth and life with Harrison and helping him understand how much Jesus loves us brought me further peace. 

Harrison played Joseph in his Joy School nativity program. He was very attentive to the baby Jesus (which happened to be his lamby!)

 

 

Harrison was the center of attention this Christmas...and he loved it! Here he is with his Grandparents on Christmas Eve. 

 

It's hard for a four year old when Christmas is on a Sunday. Harrison opened a few presents before church and was able to wait patiently until after church to open the rest! We got a big thumbs up on the bike : )

All dressed up for church! (I'm sorry, seriously...how cute is this boy?!?!)

 

I have thought a lot this season about the gifts in my life and when I look back on 2011, the overwhelming sentiment will be Gratitude. I feel helpless in ever being able to balance the scales, I have received so much. I do know however, that it is better to give than to receive so I have my work cut out for me! I hope you had a wonderful Holiday season with your loved ones and that you will be abundantly blessed in the New Year!