It is early in the morning, as I sit here with my hot cup of coffee.  The

Christmas carols are playing softly on the radio.  There are only a few

days left until the 25th.  Only a few hours yet, until my family starts

rolling in from different parts of the country, to spend time together.

It will be the first time that we are all together since last Thanksgiving,

so you can understand the joy and anticipation I have within me, as I

sit here savoring my last sips of coffee, and reflecting on it all.

 

In the last weeks, I had fun tasting some of the yummy homemade cookies that have
been dropped off at my home by loving neighbors.

I've sat through several memorable, and totally enjoyable Christmas concerts,
and relished the privilege of watching each one of our precious grandchildren
participating in them.

I've spent time visiting with in our daughter and son-in-law's home, and seeing their
lovely Christmas decorations.

I've experienced fun moments with some of our grandchildren, sensing a real
excitement in their hearts for the upcoming Christmas visit.

The Christmas decorations are completed, with this being one of my favorite.

The homemade potpourri that arrived in the mail from a good friend, fills my kitchen
with the best aroma, and looks so pretty sitting in my Mother's glass dish.

The old fashion Christmas candy is in it's dish.  Always, it's colors and swirls take me back
to my grandma's festive and colorful dining room table.

Some years I share ornaments with our grandchildren.  This year, I found these adorable
animals from Jaclyn Smith's collection at our local K Mart Store.  Hopefully, in years
to come they will think of me when they hang them on their trees.

Don't you think this kitten is cute?

So, most of my check list is done.  A few more food items to make today, and a
some last minute errands to run.  But, even though all the physical things are taken
care of, I can't help but think back over something I read recently from Chuck
Swindoll on "Attitudes".  With a house full of family, it does take a lot of
give and take from everyone, but I think the hostess(me) has a way of setting the
tone of the day, would you agree?  Hence, the reason why this well written piece
on "Attitudes", is on my mind.

This holiday season, I ask God to give me a caring, patient, and kind attitude as I
walk through each day, interacting with so varying personalities of the nineteen
people in our home.   We are so thankful that we can all be together this
Christmas.

As for each one of you who stop by this blog from time to time, "thank you so much"!
It is a blessing to have you step into my world for a brief time.  I know many of you are
facing difficult and testing situations in your lives, and that this Christmas might
not hold the "Merry" for you.  With that in mind, I do wish you moments of "Joy
to the World", and in your "Silent Nights", huge doses of faith to keep on going.
I am grateful for you!  Here is a little something for you!

Christmas Blessings!