Andrew & Jenna with Santa

My mother in law and I took the kids to see Santa at MSU two weeks b/f Thanksgiving, which explains why Jenna isn't in Christmas colors. I do not see myself fighting the lines to take another picture. I thought this one turned out sweet!

Maybe not a Grinch after all...

So.. as you all know Christmas really is my FAVORITE season.. Until you add all the stress..planning.. and running around in circles that the season brings with it. I LOVE all the events and traditions... but as I get older remembering the real meaning of Christmas is becoming more important to me. Christmas for me.. It's being grateful for a fresh new start with Jesus. No matter how awful I am and how lightly I live life at times.. I know that Jesus forgives me. I am so very grateful that Jesus died on the cross for me. In a million years, I could never repay him to the extent that I owe him... In turn, I feel that it is very important for me to show throughout my life and during Christmas holidays my love for Jesus through helping others. Christmas is not about having my house in tip top store advertised shape.. Christmas gatherings at my house will be turned into me being thankful for all the friends and family that I have in my life. I will not run myself crazy knowing that my house is not in the best of order... I will be thankful that I can share such sweet times with all the people I admire and love. In our area things like soup kitchens are not the easiest to find, but I would love to teach my children and husband that on holidays, as well as many times in the year, we need to wake up and serve others.. not ourselves.

So, as the Christmas season approaches and you see me not totally engaged in the whole Christmas traditions.. it's not that I'm being a grinch...I'm just taking time to be thankful.