It is that time of year again. It is Christmas time!!!! In my family you begin watching movies and listening to music on November 1st. So far being an adult has gotten in the way of my Holiday Celebrations but I watched my first Christmas movie today. I happened to have some time and I chose the class Santa Clause with Tim Allen. But don't worry I have been enjoying Christmas music all week. While I ran I rocked out to music and while my kids worked again I got to enjoy some holiday tunes to put a smile on my face.
Regardless of what you may think of this tradition to start Christmas so soon I bet none of you would disagree that Christmas puts a smile on your face. It reminds me of some of the happiest times of my life. I remember going to a Christmas program and walking in Salt Lake City with Jason and Kyle. I remember my family singing and performing Christmas music. I love gathering around with my family and making beautiful music together, me on the violin, Lori on the flute, and Brent on the piano or even sometimes the trombone. Some of my best memories is listening to my Mother's beautiful voice sing while she worked in the kitchen and she let me help. For those of you who have complimented my cooking all the credit goes to the woman who trained me and who is an AMAZING cook herself my mother. I know I made her job and her cooking harder but she always made me feel like Christmas baking in particular was meant to be a family affair. I remember Christmas Mornings gathered in my parents room and praying. I remember my family playing games after Christmas dinner. Now as we are growing up we stay up on Christmas Eve as well playing games and enjoying the adult time after the kids are in bed. I love being around my nieces and nephews as they struggle to calm themselves to sleep so Santa can come and they wake up ready to see what they got. I remember all the Hot Chocolate get togethers are my various apartment through the years and being surrounded by friends. I remember decorating for Christmas now and when I was younger. I remember the joy of watching Christmas movies with my family or dear friends. I love all the pictures I have ever taken.
Whatever you think of when you think of Christmas I hope it includes LOVE. That is why I love Christmas is because there is so much love being shared. Love being shown a daughter by a mother in a kitchen making caramel and fudge. Love being shown to a girl by a boy who is her best friends. By a husband to his wife as he tries to surprise her for Christmas (this one I have seen through my father and brothers especially Scotty!) Love being shared by friends who are not at home to bring Christmas to this single life. Love being shown to strangers in need or on the street. It is the love we feel that makes me feel happy. The lights that shine on the trees and the music are just a tool used to remind me of the love that I feel when I am with my family and my friends.
Finally this love is just a small piece of the love Christ has for us and Heavenly Father has for us. To me that is amazing. That Christmas brings such a small piece Love when compared to how infinitely the Lord loves us. Christmas makes my soul sing with joy and love.
