12.16.12

On this the third week of Advent, (Gaudete) Sunday,  I am really proud of Jordan (lighting the candles) and Mackenzie (reciting the prayer) for their participation (especially since I could not physically stand in front of the microphone) in the Advent wreath.  Afterward, it meant even more to me to see my children do it all, as a reminder of the innocence of children.  Then was time to watch my first pageant.   It really was sweet to see, especially after Friday's tragedy, a joyous celebration.  To see so many children involved in the celebration was amazing.  My niece and nephew (Emily and Alex) along with all the other children involved did a wonderful job.

Lesson heard...I had always taken down my tree on Christmas day.  Before you gasp, let me explain.  (if you knew where I lived for so many years you already understand) living in a basement apartment where the regular sized 5-6 ft REAL tree was literally blocking the kitchen cabinets from as early as the weekend after Thanksgiving...The 6.5ft ceilings made it really warm and by Christmas day, the tree had very little needles left on it... With all that being said, since our conversation of a few weeks ago, I have tried not to turn the lights on too long and am making sure the tree has water.... especially today, I HEARD what you said, and will be celebrating the entire season...The tree will stay up perhaps I will even try to keep it up till the Epiphany.... wouldn't that be a shocker?!!!!

Blessed are you, O Lord our God, ruler of the universe.  Your prophets spoke of a day when the desert would blossom and waters would break forth in the wilderness. Bless us as we light the candles on this wreath.  Strengthen our hearts as we prepare for the coming of the Lord.  May he give water to all who thirst, for he is our light and our salvation.  Blessed be God forever.
Amen