Happy Holy Holidays!

I am so excited about Christmas! It could be just because I have two weeks off, but I think it is more than that. I will get to see my nephews and sister. I am excited to spend time with everyone. I had hoped Paul's mom would let me go pick her up for Christmas, but she is still not ready to be social yet. This will be a hard Christmas for her and Paul. My heart goes out to them.

I just feel so blessed to know that God loved me so much that He sent Jesus to be my Savior! The Christmas sermon on Sunday was about how God chose to use the lowliest people for the birth of Jesus. His parents were just common and humble people. The shepherds only owned the sheep and maybe a tent to sleep in. They were considered the lowest in society, yet they were chosen to be the ones to go and see the Savior. God can use anyone, even the lowly and humble. It was an excellent sermon.

I hope that everyone will remember the true meaning of Christmas, the birth of our Savior. And I wish you Merry Christmas

Snow days are great!!!

Monday came with a nice long evening, we were dismissed from school about two hours early. I went home to clean and make a special supper. I had to grade some papers and put them in the computer before Christmas break. I wanted to wait but was afraid we would have school the next day. Much to my delight, we were out until Friday!!!! It was great; thank you God for the snow and ice. I was able to: wrap presents, make candy, and finish the last minute shopping - early.

Today, Friday, was just a half of a day and I was home before noon. We had the worst Christmas music program in the history of programs. I don't know why we can not just sing Christmas songs, and be done with it. Our music teacher, bless her heart, wants to do elaborate programs with speaking parts and nontraditional Holiday songs. It was horrible and was done twice, once for grades: PK, 2, 3, and 5 and again for K, 1, and 4. I feel bad for the parents that had to watch that two times. In her defense, it is just so much for one person to do, in addition she is also the band director for 6-8 grades. They also had a concert that day, but in contrast it was exceptionally great!

As a result of the bad weather, the girls' Christmas party was canceled. We were just going to dinner and the movies. It was going to be a treat for all of us. Shiloh, who just had the baby, was also going to go. I was so excited about it, but we will do it sometime, maybe.

The Shack by William P. Young

I started reading this book because of the suggestion of a co - worker. I also go to church with him and his wife. He told me it would change my world and life. It was an excellent book, that provoked many spiritual thoughts.

I started reading it last Tuesday night. I got about a quarter of the way through, put it down, and vowed not to read anymore of it. I wanted to put it in the freezer, but I was scared to get out of bed in the dark! The book completely freaked me out. The book gave an image of God that was so different then what I am use to. I tried to be offended, and even consider it sacrilegious. I just could not conjure up those feelings. As I look back, I know I was feeling doubt, confusion, and fear.

I went to church Wednesday night, and saw the co-worker. I told him I was not going to finish the book. He ask me where I was in the book, and then told me I had to finish. I took his advice and woke up at 4 the next morning and finished the book!

I am so thankful I did. It is a must read for all!