Nearly Christmas

It's nearly Christmas here in Denver, where I sit curled up by the Christmas tree as it nears midnight. After a busy day of preparations, it's so sweet to sit in the quiet, soaking in the blessing of being here with our family, getting to celebrate together.

We hosted Christmas Eve tonight - twenty-three from the Patty/Schroeder clan, all packed into the house of Dave's cousin Carol who is letting us stay here during our family reunion (she's with family in Tennessee).

Wassail, our family's traditional fajita dinner, photos from my niece's wedding just two days ago, reading the Christmas story in six different languages, thoughtful gifts, rousing Christmas carols, homemade Czech Christmas cookies from Claire, artfully told stories and hilarious laughter...all delightful, yet with one thought in mind.

The gift of Jesus. That's why we were together tonight.

There is no other way to say it: He IS the reason for the season! How I love this holiday that reminds me of how very grateful I am for His gift in coming to me, to us.

From our family to yours, we wish you a very merry Christmas!