year for everyone. I was driving home the other night and I thought about how
early the sun goes down once we reach early November. Shorter days and longer
nights - fall and winter and into early spring. When I got home I told Jim how the
shorter days are a sign from God to slow down a little bit. That's how I see it. Jim
said that made sense. It's time to get out the crock pots (I don't have one so I just
put a big pot with a lid on my stove top) and slow cook some hearty stews, soup,
or beans. Mix up a batch of cornbread - go ahead and double the recipe and bake
it in a greased 9 x 13 baking pan. Stock up on tea bags and hot cocoa mixes.
Go to the library and check out a couple of good books. Take time during this
busy season to rest a little. Make out your to do list while your sipping on a cup
of hot tea. Pick out some neat holiday books to read with your children after
they take their baths. Cut snow flakes out of paper and hang them on your
windows. Sit down and color pictures with your little ones and stir their hot
cocoa with candy cane sticks.
Thanksgiving is next week. As you gather around the table, give thanks,
rejoice and give thanks. Don't talk about politics, just visit and catch up on what
is going on in everyone's lives. Eat dessert! Hug your loved ones and share
some fond memories. I will not be shopping on Thanksgiving or on Black Friday
or that whole weekend. I haven't done that in years. This year is going to be a
simple Christmas for us. We are not going to spend a lot money. I'm going to
bake up a storm and give simple, meaningful gifts. Think about what your family
members really need, not just what they want. Don't over spend - enjoy this special
time of year. If you have a little extra money in your budget - buy a gift for a family
or friend who might be having a hard time this year. Stop by and visit an elderly
neighbor or family member. Bake some cookies or bread and take to share!
Remember "The Reason for this Season" be joyful and give thanks!
A Porcupine and The Nativity Scene
Once upon a time in December
Christmas Day not far away.
Our Nativity Scene set up
The Holy Family, an angel
the donkey, lambs, oxen, and such.
The Three Wise Men came early.
That year we received a prickly surprise!
We were visited by a stranger -
a large porcupine appeared.
He ate acorns from beneath the oak tree
as he waddled back and forth.
Until closer and closer he drew
and we had another animal
one who wanted to adore.
Who wanted to be part of the Nativity Scene
where in a manger lay, our sweet Lord.
Blessings and peace wherever you are
Blessings and peace near or far
May you and your family be blessed with all that you need!
Bye for now, Sharla
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