“I testify that He is utterly incomparable in what He is, what He knows, what He has accomplished and what He has experienced. Yet, movingly, He calls us His Friends” ~~Neal A. Maxwell 

*****

It’s been a quiet Christmas Day.  We woke to polos from our children/grandchildren of Christmas morning, and the opening of gifts.  Dean and I exchanged small gifts with each, then opened the gifts from our children.  We’ve felt peace and harmony.  It’s been a day filled with beautiful Christmas music, movies and remembrances of the Savior, and all that He has done for us.  His gifts are immeasurable.  I’d like to share the song “He Is The Gift” with you, and to end with a poem which talks about the precious gift of prayer.  “Christmas Eve” was  written by my grandmother’s youngest sister.  It’s a message from the past, but still is sweet and relevant today.  Until next year ~~ Marilee

*****          

He is the Gift - New Christmas song by Shawna Edwards
video
https

*****

Christmas Eve

    (c) Evelyn Wilde Heath (my great aunt)

It was such a stately mansion
On the corner of the square,
And the white snow, falling around it,
Shone, like sequins scattered there,
For a Christmas tree was lighted,
Tall, and glorious to the sight,
As it threw its bright reflections
Through the darkness of the night.

Johnnie stopped to leave a paper,
And his heart beat rapidly
As he looked into the window
and beheld the Christmas tree,
All about the night grew darker–
Johnnie dreaded so to leave–
"I forgot," he slowly whispered,
"That tonight is Christmas Eve–

"Surely doesn’t seem like Christmas,
Now my daddy’s gone away,
And my mom so sad and ailing,
growing weaker every day."
Johnnie’s ip began to quiver
And a lump came in his throat,
As he plunged his small hands deeper
In the pockets of his coat.

"Guess at that, I’m pretty lucky–
Got to see this Christmas tree,
wish my mom was getting better,
And I’d bring her by with me."
Then he turned, rushed bravely onward
Till his work was quite complete.
No one noticed the small figure
As he hurried down the street.

Now the darkness wrapped about him,
As he left the lights of town–
Then he reached a little cottage
With it’s walls most tumbling down.
"Mom, I’m home." His young voice greeted–
"Say, tonight is Christmas Eve–
You’d just ought to see that tree, mom–
Bigger than you could believe."

 But his mother didn’t answer.
And he tiptoed to her bed,
Touched her gently, as he questioned,
"Did you hear, mom, what I said?
Are you worse, mom?" Tears came streaming
Down his roughened, little face,
As he bent and held her tightly
In his little arms’ embrace.

"I could sing, and pray for you, mom,
I know just the words to say,
Like the Preacher did that Sunday–
Then you’ll get well right away."
Then his small voice seemed to echo
Through the bare and lonely room–
Sweet, like church bells softly ringing
Through the heartache and the gloom.

"Take your burdens unto Jesus–
Lay them gently at His feet–
He will hear you–He will help you,
For His heart is pure and sweet."
Then he raised his eyes toward heaven
And repeated what he’d said,
While his hand lay very gently
On his mother’s feverish head.

And a stranger stopped, –when passing
He had heard the plaintive song,
And he paused in meditation
Feeling something must be wrong–
Heard the childish supplication–
"Please, dear God, –she’s awful sick–
She’s my mom–please make her better,
You must act just awful quick,

"‘Cause she’s worser than this mornin’--
She can’t even say a word;
If you’ll help her to get better,
Then I’ll know you’ve truly heard."
With a wondrous Christmas spirit,
He knocked gently on the door–
Quietly entered, as he did so,
Saw the sight, the cold bare floor–

Guessed their plight, and wisely told him–
"I’ve been sent to help you, son."
"Say! He’s awful quick in actin’--
Sent you most for I was done.
It’s my mom–she’s awful sick, sir,

But if He has sent you here,
Everything will be alright, now,
Guess there’s nothin’ more to fear."

I will take you home with me, son–
We are lonely as can be,
And we’ll take your mother, too, dear,
She’ll be well right soon, you’ll see.
We’ve no one to share our Christmas,
So we need a little boy–
Guess we both must need each other
To bring Christmas peace and joy."

Johnnie’s eyes grew bright–grew wider,
And his small heart jumped with glee,
As the large car turned, then circling
Stopped right at that Christmas tree.
"Oh!" He cried, "Do you live here, sir–
Do I really stay here, too?
Guess he knew how glad I’d be, sir,
That’s the reason he sent you."

Then they entered, his frail mother
Born in strong arms, like a child.
And she seemed to know the blessing
For she raised her eyes and smiled.
Through His marvelous way of working,
Peace and love and joy he gave
Seemed to fill the room with glory
Of His power to bless and save.

Christmas Eve–so bright and happy–
Johnnie loved to often tell
How the doctor came that evening,
How his mom seemed almost well,
Tell of Christmas Day’s bright dawning–
Santa, too, had seemed to know,
He brought toys and bike for Johnnie,
New, warm clothes they needed so.

"And the strangest thing," said Johnnie,
"Our Heavenly Father must be near,
For those words I’d hardly spoken
To have reached His listening’ ear–
And he sent us help, so sudden,
So I know he really cares,
And I know he’s always listenin’
That he truly answers prayers."

The spirit of Christmas is the spirit of love and of generosity and of goodness. It illuminates the picture window of the soul, and we look out upon the world's busy life and become more interested in people than in things. ~~ Thomas S. Monson

*****

RAOK: Let someone else pick what to watch on TV

*****

Still, Still, Still -Tabernacle at Temple Square Choir
video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5rflf6NEQ6I&list=PLVt5sQWN7Py9PlMHKxeP4TXH8gSBIEKt3

Still, still, still,
One can hear the falling snow.
For all is hushed,
The world is sleeping,
Holy Star it's vigil keeping.
Still, still, still,
One can hear the falling snow.

Sleep, sleep, sleep,
'Tis the eve of our Saviour's birth.
The night is peaceful all around you,
Close your eyes,
Let sleep surround you.
Sleep, sleep, sleep,
'Tis the eve of our Saviour's birth.

Dream, dream, dream,
Of the joyous day to come.
While guardian angels without number,
Watch you as you sweetly slumber.
Dream, dream, dream,
Of the joyous day to come

*****

Normally the post on the 24th is the final post of the year, but because of the connection problems I have experienced, there will be one more post – tomorrow.  I love reading and one of my favorite authors growing up was Jules Verne.  I’m sure that he is France’s most loved and most read author.  I read “20,000 Leagues under the Sea” and “Journey to the Center of The Earth” more times than I can count.  I used to lay under the covers with a flashlight at night, reading about Phileas Fogg and how he made a bet to do the impossible – to circumnavigate the world in 80 days.  He traveled by train, by balloon, by stagecoach and by elephant accompanied by his servant, Jean Passepartout.  (I took French in school because I loved that name!)  Bad things happened along the way.  He was mistaken for a bank robber and hunted by “Fix” throughout much of the book.  He discovered a young widow about to be sacrificed in a funeral pyre with her husband’s remains in India.  He rescued her.  He was spied on, Passepartout was kidnapped - he rescued him.  He missed his connections.  What can I say, it’s an exciting book.  He finally made it back to London and discovered that he was one day too late.  He missed the deadline by 1 day.  Tragic.  It’s so sad.   Then he discovers it’s not too late.  He forgot about the international date line!  He got to his club, went through the doors and proclaimed to one and all, “I’m here.”  What does that have to do with Christmas?  Each of us is on a journey back to God.   At times it seems so hard, almost impossible to accomplish.  We don’t know how to manage the trials and obstacles we face.  We find ourselves saying, “Where do I go from here?  Do I have time? We do.  Thanks to Our Savior, he provides us with the time we need.  Thank you for Your love, for Your example, for Your guidance, and happy anniversary of Your birth. ~~ Marilee

*****

Christmas Bells

Few sounds gladden the heart like church bells ringing. In days gone by, villages full of people gathered to the sound of bells. On Christmas Day, church bells rang far and wide resonating with hope and goodwill.

The story is told of a village where the church bells stopped ringing for many years. No one really knew why. But Christmases had come and gone without bells echoing against the mountainside. The townspeople were concerned. They began to think it had something to do with their offerings. So they put more jewels, more treasures, more of everything on the altar. But the bells remained silent.

Then one year a boy named Pedro and his younger brother set out from their humble home, miles from the church, to attend the wonderful Christmas Eve service they had heard so much about. The boys walked through the wind and chill more than half the day and into the night so they could join in the festivities. But just as they entered the city, they saw an old woman lying in a bed of snow. She was cold and weak and barely breathing. Pedro could not pass by without helping. He looked into the distance and knew that he would miss the service, but he asked his little brother to go ahead and take his only silver coin, still warm in his pocket, and place it on the altar. Pedro stayed with the woman and helped her. He did not hear the organ play or the choir sing, but he did hear the bells ring -- for the first time in many, many years. The people said the bells started ringing when Pedro's little brother dropped his silver coin onto the altar. No one in the Church knew why -- but Pedro did. He had given away what he wanted for himself to help someone else.

This year as we hear the Christmas bells chime, remember the wondrous gift that was given so long ago in Bethlehem. As we selflessly give, we too will hear the bells on Christmas Day.

“To the American People: Christmas is not a time or a season but a state of mind. To cherish peace and good will, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas. If we think on these things, there will be born in us a Savior and over us will shine a star sending its gleam of hope to the world.” ~Calvin Coolidge

*~*~*~*

RAOK:  Help someone struggling with heavy bags.

*~*~*~*

Good Sabbath, everyone ~~ Marilee

*~*~*~*

Christ Is Born (The Carpenters)
slide show
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B747HKR4O4Q
Christ Is Born
The Carpenters
It is he
Christ who is born today
Hear him crying
In the manger
King of Heaven
Son of God
Alleluia, Alleluia
There he lies
There with the lambkin
Only swaddle for his garment
With his Holy Mother Mary
Alleluia, Alleluia
Glory, Glory to almighty God
And on earth peace to all men
Hear the joyful angels singing
Alleluia, Alleluia
He is born
Let us adore him
Christ the Lord
King of Kings
Prince of Peace
For all the universe
Alleluia, Alleluia

*~*~*~*

A PRECIOUS GIFT
~Author Unknown

Jesus Christ, the Savior and the Son of God, appeared this Christmas season for a moment among the people of the world. Oh, of course, this was not the coming in which He will appear according to his promise at the end of time in all His heavenly glory, and which will be sudden "as lightning flashing from east to west." No, He visited the modern world briefly as if to catch the real spirit of man in his enlightened age. He came softly and unobserved, and appropriately, He came during the Christmas season. The multicolored lights and trappings, the green
boughs of the Yule tree, the hasty greeting of the season, and the nervous movements of crowds flowing from store to store, all signified the approach of Christmas-tide.

Perhaps the trace of a wry smile lightened His features as He thought of all this feverish activity. Truly, what was man celebrating and to what purpose? Supposedly they reveled in and paid homage to His birth. It mattered not so much that the time of celebration was altered from the actual event. What did matter was the spirit and intent engendered by the occasion. To determine the depth and direction of this spirit and intent was the purpose of His visit.

He moved silently in our midst with a gentle countenance and a smile of infinite compassion. The sun of love burning in His heart; light and power shining from His eyes. Yet, to nearly all, He is unrecognized – but not totally so. An old man, blind from childhood, passing in the throng, touched His garments and perceived His being.

"O, Lord, heal me and I shall see," the old man cried.

And as it were, scales fell from his eyes and the blind man saw.

A child of the street, not too long from His heavenly presence, felt His influence and placed her tiny hand in His. This brief encounter with its silent exchange of knowing confidence and guileless love was reminiscent of similar occasions so long ago.

The blind man and the child shared for a brief moment that which the entire world sought but was too busy to recognize.

He passed on through the maddening throng, absorbing the moods of the occasion. A young couple stood in front of the music store. They were arguing rather heatedly over their financial status. These two, who were tenderly endeared to one another less than an hour ago, were now in real danger of losing that sweet feeling. "Oh, my children," thought the Savior. "As if the true spirit of love was measured by the cost or size of a trinket."

He recalled the story told of another couple -- the cutting of her hair to provide a watch chain -- and the sale of his watch to provide matching combs for her hair. Would that all lovers could feel this same spirit toward each other.

He passed by the unhappy opponents, fleetingly touching each in turn. Her lowered eyes, jeweled with tears, raised to meet those of her mate.


"I do love you. "

"And I, you," he replied.

The young voices of a quartet elevated from the music store. The words: "All I want for Christmas is to keep the things I have."

The Savior, seeking sanctuary from the milling shoppers, made His way into a building and became a spectator, with others, of the traditional first grade portrayal of His birth. Emerson School had enacted the nativity story each year since its founding. This year the presentation had proved like all the rest, a test for teachers to get the correct reactions from six-year-old shepherds and wise men. One problem had been particularly persistent. The little boy with the round face and the very tender heart had been asked to play the part of the innkeeper. Each practice, when the time came for him to deny the saintly Mary and the quiet Joseph a place to sleep, he would develop a quivering lip and finally break into tears. He was just not able to turn them away. Finally, the teacher in charge felt that an understanding had been reached. She had carefully explained to the weeping innkeeper that it wasn't really his fault that the inn was full. It was just completely sold out and there was nothing he could do about it. This explanation seemed to restore the necessary emotional balance and the nativity was presented. The crucial moment arrived when the innkeeper had to do this imperative duty.


"There is no ..,"

A quivering lip.

"... room."

A sob, a pause, and then a half smile.

"But won't you come in for a drink of water?" There was little wonder in the Savior's heart as to why little children made up the bulk of His kingdom.

The department store was large and stocked to overflowing with nearly every conceivable device and need of man. The Christ made his way through the mountains of merchandise that paled the remembrances of the Phoenician bazaars and trading ships of long ago. A knot of people in one corner of the store attracted His attention. A flaxen bearded man with a red suit and black boots sat on a chair at the head of a long line of children and parents. Santa Claus looked tired and Jesus felt a distinct kinship to him, for He understood how tiring a day of requests could be.

Two little girls -- one six and the other about three -- made their way forward and essenced themselves on each knee of the bewhiskered union man. The usual pattern of question and answer followed.

"And what do you want Santa to bring you this Christmas?"

Instead of really listening to the replies, Santa was noticing the poor material and roughly patched clothing of the two. Stringy hair and pinched faces surrounded bright and expectant eyes.

"And have you been good little girls?"

Again, he failed to hear. Their stockings had long ago lost their elasticity and their shoes had disintegrated under the relentless wear given them.

Santa gave each eager pair of hands the plastic bank the store had provided for each child as a memento of the occasion. But he couldn't seem to let the experience end here. He reached into his pocket and drew forth nine coins and proceeded to place them alternately in each bank. The intense childish eyes grew wide with excitement, and Santa saw what joy even his small offering was bringing. Each coin had been received with such ecstacy that he wished each one could have been a hundred in number.

Each child had four coins in her possession and a moment of decision had arrived -- what to do with the ninth?

Santa asked, "And who should I give this last one to?" The older and more precocious spoke with little hesitation.

"Give it to my little sister."

The Savior saw the mist of emotion cloud the eyes of Santa Claus as he placed a kiss on two cheeks.

The Redeemer left as He had come, quietly and unobserved. He had seen and felt some of the good and the bad of the world. But He left with a confidence that right would prevail. The jarring and contending of governments seemed to be offset by the inherent good will emanating from man to man. It is true that the excessive commercial drive and intent of the Christmas season reminded Him somewhat of the money changers in a past time, but the spirit of "giving" was everywhere prevalent and dominated the commercialism found in some quarters. He noticed, too, that often the true meaning of Christmas was submerged under fable and folly. And yet, the underlying strength of the real story permeated all the other and influenced it for good.

"Love the giver more than the gift."  Brigham Young 

✯✯✯✯✯✯

RAOK:  Leave a favorite book in a public place with a note that’s it’s free for the taking.

✯✯✯✯✯✯

In the quiet of Christmas morning
Moody Blues
animated snowman video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G91MR2zDJ9c

In the quiet of Christmas morning
In the peace of Christmas dawn
The child that is the future
Will see the earth reborn

When we take our Christmas journey
In the steps that went before
With hands across the water
In peace forever more

In the quiet of Christmas morning
In the peace of Christmas dawn
The child that is the future
Will see the earth reborn

✯✯✯✯✯✯

Spaghetti Casserole
1 package (16 ounces) spaghetti
1-1/2 pounds ground beef
1 jar (26 ounces) spaghetti sauce
2 cans (8 ounces each) tomato sauce
1 can (10-3/4 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup, undiluted
1 cup (8 ounces) sour cream
2 cups shredded Colby-Monterey Jack cheese
Preheat oven to 350°. Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink; drain. Stir in spaghetti sauce and tomato sauce. Remove from the heat.
Drain pasta. Combine soup and sour cream. In two 8-in. square baking dishes, layer half of the meat sauce, pasta, soup mixture and cheese. Repeat layers.
Cover and bake 55-65 minutes or until cheese is melted. Freeze option: Cover and freeze unbaked casseroles up to 3 months. To use, partially thaw in refrigerator overnight. Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Preheat oven to 350°. Bake casseroles, increasing time as necessary to heat through and for a thermometer inserted in center to read 165°.

✯✯✯✯✯✯

I went to the Care Center to see a friend, and as I walked down the window-lined hallway to the Rehab wing, I saw an elderly woman in a wheelchair sitting by one of the windows.  She appeared to not notice me, just sat their clutching the corner of an afghan which was mostly on the floor.  I stopped, and picked it up.  Then I covered her lap and tucked it in around her. I patted her on the shoulder and said, “Merry Christmas.”   My friend was sleeping, so I didn’t stay.  As I walked back down the hall, the same lady was still sitting there, unmoving, alone. As I passed her, I heard her mumble something and I turned to her.  She said, “Thank you.  Thank you for seeing me.  Thank you for caring that I was cold.”  She acted as if I had done something remarkable.  I stayed and visited with her for about 20 minutes, then left to one more “thank you.”  I thought of how it made me feel to be told thank you for such a little thing, and I asked myself when the last time was that I was truly grateful to God for all of the little blessings in my life.  “Thank you, Heavenly Father, that the skies were blue today, thank thee that my brother called me, thank thee that I didn’t burn the chocolate I was melting, thank thee that I had more crackers in the closet.  Little things indeed, but they matter.  I need to remember to thank Him for the most important things of all as well.  Thank thee for thy Son.  Thank thee for His love.  Thank thee for His guidance.  Thank thee for His Atoning Sacrifice.  Thank thee for my life, the air I breathe and the people I love. ~~  Marilee

✯✯✯✯✯✯

The Legend of the Christmas Tree

Most children have seen a Christmas tree, and many know that the pretty and pleasant custom of hanging gifts on its boughs comes from Germany; but perhaps few have heard or read the story that is told to little German children, respecting the origin of this custom. The story is called "The Little Stranger," and runs thus:

In a small cottage on the borders of a forest lived a poor laborer, who gained a scanty living by cutting wood. He had a wife and two children who helped him in his work. The boy's name was Valentine, and the girl was called Mary. They were obedient, good children, and a great comfort to their parents. One winter evening, this happy little family were sitting quietly round the hearth, the snow and the wind raging outside, while they ate their supper of dry bread, when a gentle tap was heard on the window, and a childish voice cried from without: "Oh, let me in, pray! I am a poor little child, with nothing to eat, and no home to go to, and I shall die of cold and hunger unless you let me in."

Valentine and Mary jumped up from the table and ran to open the door, saying: "Come in, poor little child! We have not much to give you, but whatever we have we will share with you."

The stranger-child came in and warmed his frozen hands and feet at the fire, and the children gave him the best they had to eat, saying: "You must be tired, too, poor child! Lie down on our bed; we can sleep on the bench for one night."

Then said the little stranger-child: "Thank God for all your kindness to me!"

So they took their little guest into their sleeping-room, laid him on the bed, covered him over, and said to each other: "How thankful we ought to be! We have warm rooms and a cozy bed, while this poor child has only heaven for his roof and the cold earth for his sleeping-place."

When their father and mother went to bed, Mary and Valentine lay quite contentedly on the bench near the fire, saying, before they fell asleep: "The stranger-child will be so happy to-night in his warm bed!"

These kind children had not slept many hours before Mary awoke and softly whispered to her brother: "Valentine, dear, wake, and listen to the sweet music under the window."

Then Valentine rubbed his eyes and listened. It was sweet music indeed, and sounded like beautiful voices singing to the tones of a harp:

"O holy Child, we greet thee! bringing
Sweet strains of harp to aid our singing.

"Thou, holy Child, in peace art sleeping,
While we our watch without are keeping.

"Blest be the house wherein thou liest.
Happiest on earth, to heaven the highest."

The children listened, while a solemn joy filled their hearts; then they stepped softly to the window to see who might be without.

In the east was a streak of rosy dawn, and in its light they saw a group of children standing before the house, clothed in silver garments, holding golden harps in their hands. Amazed at this sight, the children were still gazing out of the window, when a light tap caused them to turn round. There stood the stranger-child before them clad in a golden dress, with a gleaming radiance round his curling hair. "I am the little Christ-child," he said, "who wanders through the world bringing peace and happiness to good children. You took me in and cared for me when you thought me a poor child, and now you shall have my blessing for what you have done."

A fir tree grew near the house; and from this he broke a twig, which he planted in the ground, saying: "This twig shall become a tree, and shall bring forth fruit year by year for you."

No sooner had he done this than he vanished, and with him the little choir of angels. But the fir-branch grew and became a Christmas tree, and on its branches hung golden apples and silver nuts every Christmas-tide.

Such is the story told to German children concerning their beautiful Christmas trees, though we know that the real little Christ-child can never be wandering, cold and homeless, again in our world, inasmuch as he is safe in heaven by his Father's side; yet we may gather from this story the same truth which the Bible plainly tells us—that any one who helps a Christian child in distress, it will be counted unto him as if he had indeed done it unto Christ himself. "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."

What is Christmas? It is tenderness for the past, courage for the present, hope for the future. It is a fervent wish that every cup may overflow with blessings rich and eternal, and that every path may lead to peace. ~Agnes M. Pahro

*~**~***~**~*

RAOK: Offer to return a shopping cart to the store for someone loading groceries in their car

*~**~***~**~*

Who Would Imagine a King
Whitney Houston
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=obnoj51kHUQ
audio only

Mommies and daddies always believe
That their little angels are special indeed
And you could grow up to be anything
But who would imagine a king
A shepherd or teacher is what you could be
Or maybe a fisherman out on the sea
Or maybe a carpenter building things
But who would imagine a king
It was so clear when the wise men arrived
And the angels were singing your name
That the world would be different 'cause you were alive
That's what heaven stood still to proclaim
One day an angel said quietly
That soon he would bring something special to me
And of all those wonderful gifts he could bring
Who would imagine, who could imagine
Who would imagine a king
Mmm
Mommy

*~**~***~**~*

Christmas Reindeer Jar
https://www.countryliving.com/diy-crafts/tips/g2132/mason-jar-christmas-crafts/?slide=14

*~**~***~**~*Crock Pot Wassail from Cheryl
1 gallon Apple cider
4 c. orange juice
4 hibiscus tea bags
10 cinnamon sticks
1 t. whole cloves
1 T juniper berries
1 ½ piece of fresh ginger, cut into slices
1 apple, sliced into rounds
1 orange, sliced into rounds
Place all ingredients in crock pot on high heat and cook for 3-4 hours, until color has darkened and fruit is soft.  Remove the tea bag and serve hot.

*~**~***~**~*

When our son, Keith, was just a little boy, he loved to pray.  We never knew exactly what he would pray about when we called on him because he was somewhat unpredictable.  One evening, he said the blessing on the food.  During the prayer,  he thanked God for “mommy and daddy, Shannon, Rachel, Nathan, me and Gina.”  He thanked Heavenly Father for his primary teachers and his friends, his dog, his bed and so on and so on.  Giggles started escaping from his siblings.  I gave the older kids the “look” (even though our eyes were supposed to be closed and our heads bowed, I still visually chastised them ) to keep them quiet.  We all know what those looks are like, don’t we?  Keith finally reached the end of the prayer.  He once again thanked God for everything, but most of all for sugar!  The table itself  erupted in laughter after that and he got mad because no one was taking him seriously.  Keith is grown now, happily married and a father of 2 precocious little boys.  His life is full of sugar, full of the sweet things which he thanked God for that day.  I’ve thought often about that prayer and about how grateful I am for the sweet things in my life–my husbands eyes, and those same beautiful eyes which look out at me from our children’s faces.  Our grandchildren, sunshine, rainbows, flowers, music, laughter - so many sweet things.  I asked my son once to tell me what Christmas was about and he shouted “Santa Claus!”  Anything else?  “Reindeer!”  Anything else?  “Presents!”  Do you remember when we talked about Jesus, and how it is his birthday? “Yes”  The next day I asked him to tell me what Christmas was about and he said, “Santa Claus!”  Anything else?  “Ice Cream!”  What?  "Birthday parties!"  Whose birthday?  “Ummmm ummm Jesus!”  Yes, right.  Good job!  Sometime later (it might have been a few days, I don't remember exactly) I asked him again what Christmas was about and he said “Jesus!” for the very first time.  He was so sweet.  We need to make sure that our children understand who Jesus is and recognize all of the incredible sweetness which fills our lives because of him ~~Marilee

*~**~***~**~*

I extracted this from a lesson found at https://www.sunday-school-center.com/support-files/lg2-lesson-1-what-is-christmas-to-you.pdf
Sunday School Center  Christmas Series – Lesson #1   www.SundaySchoolCenter.com
©2010 Sharon Kay Chatwell

Today I want to tell you the reason we have Christmas.
The reason we have Christmas is to celebrate Jesus’ birth!
Jesus is the Son of God. 
A long time ago Jesus was born here, and that is why we celebrate Christmas.  It is Jesus’ birthday!!
Mary was Jesus’ mother.
Mary was the name of the woman who had baby Jesus.
She was Jesus’ mommy.
One day an angel came to see Mary.
The angel told her that she was going to have a baby.
The baby was going to be God’s Son.
The angel told her that she was to name the baby, Jesus.
God is Jesus’ Father. • God the Father called Jesus His “One and Only Son.” • God is Jesus’ daddy. • God loved us very much to send His Son here. • We celebrate this by having Christmas each year!

*~**~***~**~*

Jesus Once Was a Little Child,

— Jesus once was a little child,

A little child like me;

And he was pure and meek and mild,

As a little child should be.

So, little children,

Let’s you and I

Try to be like him,

Try, try, try.

He played as little children play

The pleasant games of youth;

But he never got vexed if the game went wrong,

And he always spoke the truth.

So, little children,

Let’s you and I

Try to be like him,

Try, try, try.

Words: James R. Murray, 1841–1905

Music: Joseph Ballantyne, 1868–1944

Christmas! The very word brings joy to our hearts. No matter how we may dread the rush, the long Christmas lists for gifts and cards to be bought and given — when Christmas Day comes there is still the same warm feeling we had as children, the same warmth that enfolds our hearts and our homes. ~Joan Winmill Brown

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RAOK:  Instead of posting negativity online, spread some encouragement

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BarlowGirl - Hallelujah (Light Has Come) Official Music Video HD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GtZRl7HJ4DI
Beautiful video

Hallelujah (Light Has Come)
BarlowGirl
Hm my Baby
Heaven sent you to me
All the worlds been praying
Who will Save?
But who am I
That here tonight
I hold the one
Who'll Bring us life
Hallelujah,
We've been found
A child is born
To save us now
Hallelujah light has come
A Savior who will set us free
A Promise for those who believe
Do you hear the Angels
Sing for you my baby
Men and kings have come to
Bow to you
But here in my arms
So close to me
The son of God
Now all can see
Hallelujah We've been found
A child is born to save us now
Jesus Hallelujah light has come
A savior set us free
So praise to God on high
He has heard our cry

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Christmas Pinwheel cookies
Make your favorite sugar cookie recipe.  Divide dough in half. Add red or green food coloring to one half of the dough, leave the other half plain.  Mold each color into a ball, wrap in plastic and chill at least an hour.  On parchment paper, roll each half into a 6 by 12 rectangle.  Stack one on top of the other.  Roll up into a log, like you would for cinnamon rolls, then roll the log in sprinkles until well coated.  Wrap in plastic and chill.  Heat oven to 350 degrees, line cookie sheet with parchment paper.  Slice the cookie dough into to rounds 1/4 to ½ inch thick.  Bake for 10 to 12 minutes.  Transfer cookies to rack to cool.

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Christmas

Every time a hand reaches out

To help another... that is Christmas.

Every time someone puts anger aside

And strives for understanding

That is Christmas.

Every time people forget their differences

And realize their love for each other

That is Christmas.

May this Christmas bring us

Closer to the spirit of human understanding

Closer to the blessing of peace!

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Keep The Christmas Spirit 

So remember while December, 

Brings the only Christmas Day.

In the year let there be Christmas 

In the things you do and say.

Wouldn't life be worth living 

Wouldn't dreams be coming true.

If we kept the Christmas spirit 

All the whole year through.

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We had no one at the library this afternoon, and to pass the time, I typed ‘Christmas news articles’ into a search engine to see if there were any story ideas in the news.  One of the articles out of Ohio caught my eye.  I thought “this could be a great story,” so I wrote it.  Whether it’s great or not depends on you I guess.  The basic events are true.  I fictionalized peoples names and statements.

Exercise in Love

“162.00 dollars ... 163.00 dollars ...164.00 dollars .... We made $164!  That makes $194.00 total, said Meghan joyfully There’s enough money here for something nice for each of the kids.”

“Lit,” said Jamal.

“I’ll lock it in my desk tonight, then you can take it to the bank after school on Monday.”

Monday morning, shrieks of “Oh, no!  My desk!  My desk!” rang through the halls.  Miss Melissa Magonigle’s students hurried into her classroom.  As they rounded the corner, they saw her desk drawer, broken to pieces, laying on the floor.  The money was gone.

Her desk was just one of many that were robbed over the weekend, but it was the hardest to accept.  Her class had planned and successfully completed a fund raising project to help a local family in need.  It was too late to start again.  What would they do?  All but $30.00 of the money they raised was gone.  It was over.  Miss Magonigle was sad and disheartened.  Her students were angry.  Throughout the day, her students told and retold the story in every class.  

“Melissa, I heard about the money.  I’m so sorry.  This isn’t much, but maybe it will help”, a fellow teacher said as they walked through the parking lot.  She handed her a twenty.

The next morning, a teacher approached her holding out a ten dollar bill.  “I hope they find out who did this and that you get the money back.”

“Here, Melissa, take this, I hate to think of kids going without at Christmas”.  

“I couldn’t believe when the kids told me about this in class yesterday.  Let me help.”

“Rotten luck, so sorry to hear it.  Here’s a five.”

All day long teachers handed her money.  Students who were not in any of her classes handed money to her in the hallway.  Parents came into the office and asked if they could give money to Miss Magonigle to help the needy family.  Within 24 hours, the fund had over $800.00 in it.  What could have been a disaster, turned into an exercise in love.  

This Christmas, I hope we will remember to give with a heart full of love.  2 Corinthians 9:7 - Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, [so let him give]; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.

When we recall Christmas past, we usually find that the simplest things — not the great occasions — give off the greatest glow of happiness. ~Bob Hope

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RAOK:  Purchase some extra dog or cat food and drop it off at an animal shelter

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Il Divo - When a child is born
slide show
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fJFYtwiT92Y

[Sebastien:]
A ray of hope flickers in the sky
A tiny star lights up way up high

[Urs:]
All across the land dawns a brand new morn',
This comes to pass when a child is born.

[Carlos:]
A silent wish sails the seven seas
The winds of change whisper in the trees

[David:]
And the walls of doubt crumble tossed and torn,
This comes to pass when a child is born.

It's all a dream, an illusion now.
It must come true some time soon somehow
All across the land dawns a brand new morn',
This comes to pass when a child is born.
When a child is born.

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German Pancakes
extracted from https://tastesbetterfromscratch.com/german-pancakes-2/
* The website has excellent instructions
6 large eggs
1 cup milk
1 cup all-purpose flour
dash salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
5 Tablespoons butter
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
As oven preheats, put the butter in an un-greased 9x13-in. baking dish and place in oven, just until melted. 
Place the eggs, milk, flour, salt and vanilla in a blender; cover and process until smooth. Pour batter into baking dish, over melted butter.
Bake, for 22-27 minutes or until edges are golden brown and puffy.
To serve, sprinkle generously with powdered sugar and syrup.
Try serving these with easy homemade cinnamon syrup

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Imagine my surprise when I got online about an hour ago and discovered yesterdays’ blog didn’t post!  I just got home from the library, and found the bare bones.  I will publish that, then move on to todays.  Merry Christmas everyone, don ‘t let the little things (like blogs not posting) drive y ou crazy! __ Marilee 

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The Faded Blue Blanket
~~ Fred Bauer

The most frightened shepherd that night was little Ladius, just ten. He cowered behind his three older brothers when the blinding star lit the hillside. When the angel appeared, he hid behind a huge rock.

Yet, after Ladius heard the glad news, fear left him, and he limped back to his brothers, who were planning to set out for Bethlehem.

"Who will tend the sheep?" asked Samuel, the oldest at sixteen. Ladius, leaning against his shepherd's crook to support a crippled foot, volunteered, "I'd only slow you down. Let me stay with the sheep." He wet his lip as he talked. The brothers weakly protested at first, then made plans to go.

"We must each take a gift," said Samuel. One brother chose his flint to start a fire for the Christ child. Another picked meadow lilies to make a garland for the king. Samuel decided on his most precious possession -- his gold ring.

"Here -- take my blanket to him," said Ladius. It was badly worn, a faded blue with patches.

"No, Ladius," said Samuel, tenderly. "The blanket is too tattered to give even a beggar -- let alone a king. Besides, you will need it tonight."

The brothers departed, leaving Ladius alone by the fire. He laid his head upon the blanket and buried his face in his hands. Tears forced their way between his fingers, but soon the hush of night soothed the boy's heartbeat. The world in silent stillness lay ...

"Are you coming, Ladius?" called a voice. Standing nearby was the same angel who had brought the news. "You wanted to see the child, didn't you?"

"Yes," nodded Ladius, "but I must stay here."

"My name is Gabriel," said the angel. "Your sheep will be watched. Take my hand, and bring your blanket. The child may need it."

Suddenly, Ladius was outside a stable. Kneeling by a manger were his brothers. Ladius started to call out, but the angel lifted a finger to his lips.

"Give me the blanket," Gabriel whispered. The angel took it and quietly covered the baby. But the blanket was no longer faded. Now it glistened like dew in the brilliance of a new day. Returning, Gabriel squeezed Ladius's hand, "Your gift was best because you gave all that you had ..."

"Wake up, Ladius, wake up!" The boy rubbed his eyes and tried to shield them from the glaring sun. Hovering over him was Samuel.

"Did you find him?" asked Ladius.

"Yes," replied Samuel, "but first tell me why you were sleeping without your blanket."

Ladius looked about with wonder. The faded blue blanket was nowhere to be found -- then, or thereafter.

As long as we know in our hearts what Christmas ought to be, Christmas is. ~Eric Sevareid

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RAOK: Talk to someone at work or at church that you haven't talked to before

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Michael Bublé - Ave Maria 

sung in Latin

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=323gz5xNZMI

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Luke 1:38 And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.

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Thyme Roasted Vegetables
2 pounds red potatoes, cubed (about 9 cups)
3 cups sliced sweet onions (about 1-1/2 large)
3 medium carrots, sliced
1/2 pound medium fresh mushrooms, halved
1 large sweet red pepper, cut into 1-1/2-inch pieces
1 large sweet yellow pepper, cut into 1-1/2-inch pieces
2 tablespoons butter, melted
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon minced fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.  Combine all vegetablesin a large bowl.  Add remaining ingredients, toss to coat.  Trandfer to a 15 x 10 x 1" pan.  Roast 45 - 50 minutes

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Grandma Kellogg was one of the dearest people I’ve ever known.  She taught me many important lessons.  She taught me how to crochet.  One of the first projects we did together was to crochet baskets out of Christmas cards.  That was 53 years ago.   I went to pinterest today to see if there were Christmas card crafts, and guess what I found!  Crocheted Christmas card boxes.  Yay.  https://www.pinterest.com/pin/74872412529079784/  I remember sitting with Grandma cutting the shapes out, then crocheting the pieces together.  Anna Kellogg taught me a lot about God during those special times.  She taught me that God filled this whole world with everything we need.  We just have to figure out how to use it.  “God does His part, then we have to do ours.”  Grandma never threw anything out if there was a way to reuse it.  She told me, “God doesn’t throw us away.  He always gives us a 2nd chance to do or be something more.   “God does His part, then we have to do ours.”  Anna took a little child, who didn’t have any grandparents of her own, and made her into a much loved granddaughter.  I think of her every Christmas, and every time that I see a Christmas card.  She taught me about Jesus and about how He did His part, and now we just have to do ours. ~~Marilee

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I don’t usually post Santa Claus stories, but this one is about a man who did his part, and a loving God who did his.

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CHRISTMAS LOAVES AND FISHES ~
by Raynier Maharaj of Toronto Canada

On Christmas Eve, in homes everywhere, there is quiet excitement. The festive feeling and the warmth of having family members near brings to mind a Christmas tale I love to relate each year. It's a true story, even though it might sound unbelievable. And it's proof that miracles do happen.
A long time ago there was a group of young people who decided to spread some Christmas cheer. They had discovered that there were several children who would be spending the festive holiday in a community hospital nearby. So one of the friends dressed as Santa Claus, they bought nice presents, wrapped them, and armed with guitars and sweet voices, they dropped in unexpectedly at the hospital on Christmas Eve.

The children were overjoyed at seeing Santa, and by the time the group was finished handing out presents and singing Christmas carols, there were tears in everyone's eyes. From then on, it was decided they would play Santa every year. The following Christmas Eve, other patients at the hospital were included in the rounds and by the third year the celebration was expanded to embrace some of the poor children in the neighborhood.

On the fourth Christmas Eve, however, after all the rounds were made, Santa Claus looked into his bag and discovered there were a few extra toys left. So the friends mulled it over, trying to figure out what to do with them.

Somebody mentioned that there were a few squatters' shacks nearby in which a couple of desperately poor families lived. So the group decided to go there, thinking that there were perhaps three families at most. But as they drove over the crest of the hill into this lonely area -- it was around midnight now -- the shocked group saw a large number of people standing at the side of the street. Much to their surprise, there were children -- more than 30 of them. Behind them were not three shacks but rows and rows of shabby squatters' dwellings.

As the cars drew to a stop, the children came running up, shouting with joy. It turned out they had been waiting patiently all night for Santa Claus. Somebody -- no one could remember who -- had told them he was coming, although our Santa had decided to go there only moments before. Everyone was stunned, except for Santa. He was in a panic. He knew he didn't have enough toys for all these kids. Eventually, however, not wanting to disappoint the children, he decided to give whatever toys he had only to the youngest, smallest children. When the presents ran out, he'd just have to explain to the bigger kids what had happened.

So moments later he found himself perched on top of a car's hood as these 30 or more sparkling clean children, dressed in their best clothes, lined up in order of height, with the smallest first, for their moment with him. As each anxious child approached, Santa dipped into his bag, his heart heavy with dread, hoping to find at least one more toy. And by some miracle, he found one each time he dipped. And as the last of the children received a present, Santa looked into the now deflated bag. It was empty -- empty as it should have been 24 children ago. With a sigh of relief, he let out a hearty "ho-ho-ho" and bade the kids farewell. But as he was about to enter one of the cars (the reindeer, apparently, had the day off), he heard a child scream: "Santa! Santa! Wait!" And out of the bushes rushed two little children, a boy and a girl. They had been asleep. Santa's heart sank. This time he knew for sure he had no more toys. The bag was empty. He had seen it himself. But as the out-of-breath kids approached, he summoned up some extra courage and dipped into the bag one more time. And -- lo and behold -- there were indeed two more presents in the bag.

That group of friends, now all grown adults, still talk about this miracle on Christmas morning. They still have no explanation for it, other than the fact that it happened. How do I know so much about this? Well, I was the one playing Santa.

-- Family Circle 12-16-97

“All the Christmas presents in the world are worth nothing without the presence of Christ." -David Jeremiah

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RAOK: Text someone just to say good morning or good night.

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Good Sabbath, everyone ~~ Marilee

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You’re Here

Francesca Battistelli

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R2xxqRm3Hyg&t=88s

lyrics

Hold on now, I gotta take a deep breath

I don`t know what to say when I look in your eyes

You made the world before I was born

Here I am holding you in my arms tonight

Noel, noel, Jesus our Emmanuel

You`re here, I`m holding you so near

I`m staring into the face of my Savior, King and Creator

You could`ve left us on our own, but you`re here

Don`t know how long I`m gonna have you for

But I`ll be watching when you change the world

I Look at your hand, they`re still so small

Someday you`re going to stretch them out and save us all

Noel, noel, God with us Emmanuel

You`re here, I`m holding you so near

I`m staring into the face of my Savior, King and Creator

They could've left us on our own, but you`re here you`re here

Someday I`m gonna look back on this

The night that God became a baby boy

Someday you're gonna go home again,

But you leave your spirit and flood the world with joy

You`d be here, I`m holding you so near

I`m staring into the face of my Savior, King and Creator

They could've left me on my own, but you`re here you`re here

Hallelujah you`re here hallelujah

You`re here

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DAVEY AND THE FIRST CHRISTMAS

By Beth Vardon

Let’s pretend there was a boy, and Davey was his name,

Whose family lived in Bethlehem when Christmastime first came.

Davey had a special pet -- a donkey small and grey,

And what the two of the did best was getting in the way!

Davey named the donkey Tim. He never rode him though.

Either Tim was built too high or Davey was too low!

Davey’s father had an inn where people came to stay;

And lots and lots and LOTS of them were coming there one day.

His father was as busy as six or seven bees!

So Davey said, “I want to help, can’t I do something, please?

Tim would like to help you, too. Find a job for us to do!

“Listen, Son,” his father said, “Last week you broke three jugs.

You scared my two best customers with your pet lightning bugs!

You tracked in mud on my clean floor, you tripped and dropped the bread.

And though I loved the fish you caught -- why leave them on my bed?

I have put up with your helpfulness as long as I am able.

So do me one big favor now, get out -- and clean the stable!”

Davey sadly went and stood beside the stable door.

It hardly seemed that anyone could clean that dirty floor.

He and Tim both felt so bad they started to cry --

But then (thought Davey), Yes, we can! Well, anyhow -- let’s try.

First, let’s chase those chickens out. That’s what we’ve got to do.

So Tim began to flap his ears while Davey shouted, “Shooooo!”

The chickens clucked and flew and ducked, they fluttered wild and scary,

Until their feathers filled the air like snow in January.

Yes, Davey chased those chickens out, He and Tim together.

But now he had to get a sack and pick up every feather!

You should have seen how hard they worked!

They stacked up all the wheat,

They straightened up the harnesses till they were nice and neat.

They fought with spiders bravely till they chased out every but.

And since we must admit the truth -- they broke another jug!

The very biggest job of all was stacking up the hay.

Davey climbed up to the loft and put it all away.

Look, Tim. You see how high it is? I’ll make just one more trip.”

Then clear up by the stable roof his feet began to slip!

Down came the hay and Davey, too. The stable looked so queer --

All you could see was piles of hay -- one sandal, and one ear!

Slowly they came out on top, and Davey didn’t whine,

Though hay stuck out all over him just like a porcupine!

He put the hay all back again and stacked it up with care --

But left one armload down below to fill the manger there.

So Davey’s work was done at last, and when it looked neat

He picked some flowers to trim the barn, and some for Tim to eat.

“I hope it’s clean enough,” he thought. “At least I did my best,”

And feeling very, very tired, he curled up for a rest …

Who woke up Davey from his sleep? Just guess them if you can.

Mary was the woman’s name, Joseph was the man.

Mary said, “Oh, Joseph, look! This is a lovely place!”

Then, seeing Davey there, she said, with such a shining face,

“Your father’s inn had no more rooms, tonight we’re staying here.

So tell me now, are you the boy who cleaned the stable, dear?

And did your donkey help you work? We want to thank him, too.”

Though Davey was still half asleep, his heart was glad clear through.

So that is how a little boy, two thousand years ago,

Stayed on to hear the angels sing, and see the Star aglow.

As soon as Baby Jesus came to use the manger bed,

Then Davey’s sack of feathers made a pillow for His head.

No one told Davey any more that he was in the way.

His work had helped get ready for the world’s first Christmas Day!

“There is no better time than now, this very Christmas season, for all of us to rededicate ourselves to the principles taught by Jesus the Christ.” --Thomas S. Monson  

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RAOK:  Listen intently  

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Matthew 2:1-2   Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judæa in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,
2 Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.

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The Forgotten Carols Three Kings
video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OCbrmRmoQ_M
Somewhere beneath the glitter
That comes this time of winter
In many souls there is a cry
They may not clearly say it
But in their hearts they pray it
And you can see it in their eyes

'I cannot find my way
I cannot find my way
I cannot find my way at all
There are so many voices
So many different choices,
I cannot find my way at all.'

There were three kings
Who followed the star
Of Bethlehem
They came from afar
To praise and honor Him
His light
which beckoned them to see
The Lord of Man
It calls to you,
It calls to me

'We cannot find our way
We cannot find our way
We cannot find our way at all
There are so many voices
So many different choices,
We cannot find our way at all.'

We're not alone,
We have a star
And it shines today
The love that He gave
Teaches how
And shows the way
That light,
it's clear to see
If we have faith and believe
Three kings found the Lord
And so can we.

'We cannot find our way
We cannot find our way
We cannot find our way at all'
Three kings found the Lord
And so can we
There are so many voices
So many different choices,
We cannot find our way at all.'
Three kings found the Lord
And so can we

And if you've lost your way,
That light burns bright today
And it will shine eternally
Three kings found the Lord
And so can we

'We cannot find our way
We cannot find our way
We cannot find our way at all'
Three kings found the Lord
And so can we
There are so many choices
So many different voices,
We cannot find our way at all.'
Three kings found the Lord

'Lord help us find the way
We need to find the way
Lord help us find the way back home'
Three kings found the Lord
And so can we
'Lord help us find the way
We need to find the way
Lord help us find the way back home'
Three kings found the Lord
And so can we
'Lord help us find the way
We need to find the way
Lord help us find the way back home
Lord help us find the way
We need to find the way
Lord help us find the way back home'
And so must we!
[repeat to fade]

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My internet has been giving me a terrible time for the past week.  Last night, when I was pulling my hair out because I STILL couldn’t publish my BLOG, or even get to all of my files, my husband suggested that I stop doing this because it’s too stressful.  Too stressful?  What was he talking about, too stressful?  It’s not stressful at all!  (I was snarling the whole time I said that)  Dean was right, I had lost my Christmas spirit.  So I started looking for it, and found it in this poem.

 This Christmas
From The Editors of McCall's Magazine

This Christmas, mend a quarrel.
Seek out a forgotten friend.
Dismiss suspicion, and replace it with trust.
Write a love letter. Share some treasure.
Give a soft answer. Encourage youth.
Manifest your loyalty in word and deed.
Keep a promise. Find the time.
Forgo a grudge. Forgive an enemy.
Listen. Apologize if you were wrong. Try to understand.
Flout envy. Examine your demands on others.
Think first of someone else. Appreciate.
Be kind; be gentle. Laugh a little. Laugh a little more.
Deserve confidence. Take up arms against malice.
Decry complacency. Express your gratitude.
Go to church. Welcome a stranger.
Gladden the heart of a child.
Take pleasure in the beauty and wonder of the earth.
Speak your love. Speak it again. Speak it still once again.

Christmas is celebration, and there is no celebration
that compares with the realization of its true meaning -
with the sudden stirring of the heart that has extended
itself toward the core of life. Then, only then,
is it possible to grasp the significance of the first Christmas -
to savor in the inward ear the wild, sweet music of the angel choir;
to envision the star-struck sky, and glimpse,
behind the eyelids the ray of light that fell athwart
a darkened path and changed the world.

“The core of life” that’s exactly what my Savior is to me, the core of my life.  How could I find my center?  What did I need to do?  I made a list of things to do which I will share with you just in case you temporarily misplace Christmas. Or in case you need to regain the spirit.
 
1. Whose birthday is it that we are celebrating?  What kind of gifts should we give?
A. Presents of the heart. 
Gifts of time
1) meals
2) babysitting
3) shopping for a neighbor
4) visit residents at the local nursing home.
a. Find out name of a resident who seldom has visitors, and go back just to spend time with them.
B.  Donate to Sub for Santa or buy food bags to go to the food bank
C.  Success come in CANS, not in cannots!  Put this saying on a can or jar. Put in
your extra change --make some small sacrifices, then use the money to help someone in need
D.  Send a thank you card to someone who helped you out or made a difference in your life
E.  Make your choices based upon the thought “What would Christ do?"
F.  Put out a Christ centered decoration
G.  Remember, Marilee, your BLOG is a gift of love, not a chore, and do NOT threaten to unplug your computer permanently.  You know you won’t do it.
Thanks, everyone for your patience ~~ Marilee

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Southwest Casserole     From Rita                                                                                                                                                                                                                     
2 cups (8 ounces) uncooked elbow macaroni
2 pounds ground beef
1 large onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 cans (14-1/2 ounces each) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (16 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chilies, drained
1-1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon pepper
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and chopped
Cook macaroni according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, cook beef and onion over medium heat, crumbling beef, until meat is no longer pink. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Drain. Stir in next eight ingredients. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes. Drain macaroni; stir into beef mixture.
Preheat oven to 375°. Transfer macaroni mixture to two greased 2-qt. baking dishes. Top with cheese and jalapenos. Cover and bake at 375° for 30 minutes. Uncover; bake until bubbly and heated through, about 10 minutes longer. Serve one casserole. Cool the second; cover and freeze up to 3 months.
To use frozen casserole: Thaw in refrigerator 8 hours. Preheat oven to 375°. Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Cover and bake, increasing time as necessary to heat through and for a thermometer inserted in center to read 165°, 20-25 minutes.


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"Lost on my way to the manger"
By Bob Perks
I was never good at directions.
I'm not a typical man, I actually stop and ask for directions when I'm lost.  The problem is I never remember what I'm told.
Mostly it's because I only listen the first time. 
Did you ever notice that when you ask someone for directions they tell you in detail and as you turn to walk away, they repeat everything they just said again.  Like they are repeating it for their own sake. 
That's where they lose me.  I need to be told once and while it's fresh in my mind I need to run back to the car and take off.
The second time they tell me, I try to tune out what they are saying and my theory is it's like erasing a tape on playback.
I think that's what happened to me with Christmas. 
I'm lost this year.  I thought I knew the way, but it turns out all the familiar landmarks are missing. 
Most of them are still in the attic. Some are gone for good.
Lights, garland, the big Christmas tree, the clipboard with all of the mailing addresses for Christmas cards, among other things, still remain tucked away in boxes.
That's why I got lost. 
I stopped and asked for directions from a few friends.  They knew exactly how to get there.  Or at least how to find their Christmas.
I listened and then when I got home I forgot everything they told me.
What they described couldn't be found in my house.
I sat in my living room.  Through the doorway I could see my tiny tree.
Still, I felt little of what I was looking for.  I gazed around the room and it was ordinary.  No twinkle, no glitter, no greens or stockings hung along the stairs.
I had no idea where I was.  "This is Christmas?" I asked.
So, I called for directions.
"Dear God,
This is Bob.  I'm sorry to bother you.  I know this is a busy time for you as the world is getting ready to celebrate Your Son's birthday.
But I'm lost.
Yes, again.
I'm on my way to Christmas and I can't find it.  All the signs are missing.  I get the feeling I'm closing in on it and then...then the feeling is gone.
What God?  I'm looking at the wrong signs?
But it's all I ever looked for in Christmas.  You know, the lights the decorations, and presents.  I've had to stop buying presents this year.  So, that has me really lost. I mean there's no wrapping to be done.
There's no placing them under the tree.  No real joy in seeing everyone opening them on Christmas day.
I've been looking in the wrong places you say?
But Christmas is all that and more, right God?  It's memories of the past.  Pictures of family gathered around the tree.  Candles glowing in the night.
Parties and big dinners, laughter and carols sung by choirs at church.  Music on the radio that brings warm feelings of joy to my heart.
I can't find it.  Others have.  I see it in their eyes.
You're right.  Maybe I have been looking at it all wrong.  You didn't move it?  I mean, you didn't change it in any way, did you God?
It's always been the same, you say, but we've changed it.  I understand, I think.
So, in a sense my Christmas this year, being alone, may very well help me to find Christmas again?
I thought Christmas was all about family.
It is, you say.  It's about the Holy Family.  Jesus, Mary and Joseph.
The only Christmas lights were the stars.  The only directions to it were by following the brightest star.
The only decoration was hay and only three gifts were given.
I remember now.
Forgive me God, but where do I find it, how do I find it on my own?
And God said to me, "And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloth, and lying in a manger."
I sat quietly.  There was no reason for those directions to be repeated to me.
I knew them by heart.  Somehow though, I had gotten lost along the way.
It just so happens that my all time favorite carol is "Silent Night."  It is, in fact, how I will be spending Christmas this year.  Quietly. Peacefully...Silently.
Don't feel sorry for me.  Don't pity me.  This year I may not have the Christmas I always remembered, but I will have the Christmas I should have been looking for...I was just... "Lost on my way to the manger." 
Come with me.  Even in the hustle of your busy Christmas celebration.  Find the Silent Night and look for the manger.  There you will find all you've ever needed.
I hope to see you there.
Merry Christmas!

"I believe in you!" Bob Perks
Bob@BobPerks.com
Please don't remove my name and contact info!
If you are about to copy this story to share with your friends, please leave my name, email address. It is a copyrighted story and cannot be edited in any manner. Thanks!

“If you desire to find the true spirit of Christmas and partake of the sweetness of it, let me make this suggestion to you. During the hurry of the festive occasion of this Christmas season, find time to turn your heart to God. Perhaps in the quiet hours, and in a quiet place, and on your knees—alone or with loved ones—give thanks for the good things that have come to you, and ask that His Spirit might dwell in you as you earnestly strive to serve Him and keep His commandments. He will take you by the hand and His promises will be kept.” Howard W. Hunter 

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RAOK: Write a nice comment on your friend's blog or fb wall

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Celtic Woman - ''The First Noel''
Video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_PeUWgc1KU
The first Noel, the angels did say
Was to certain poor shepherds
In fields as they lay
In fields where they
Lay keeping their sheep
On a cold winter's night
That was so deep

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel
Born is the King of Israel

They looked up
And saw a star
Shining in the the East
Beyond them far
And to the earth it
It gave great light
And so it continued
Both day and night

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,
Born is the King of Israel.

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No matter how busy you are or how much you need to get done this holiday season, give your wallet a break and enjoy some of these fun ideas: Share some of your ideas with us in the comment section.

1. Have a pot luck supper.  We did pot luck soups, and had a group of friends over and talked and laughed and had a great, no stress evening
2.  Drive around and see the lights.  If you see some lights you really enjoy, stop, run to the door in your best elfish style, put a thank you card on it or a candy cane, just a little something to let them know all of their work was appreciated :)
3.  Go to a church service. Acknowledging the true reason we celebrate Christmas can be a joyful experience.
4.  Smile :) sometimes we get so busy that we forget to stop and enjoy the moment.  Smile.  It will relax you and brighten the day of the person you smiled at.

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A Snowy Christmas Eve in Hershey During the Depression (True Story About Milton Hershey)
extracted from https://www.democraticunderground.com/107461
J. P. Zenger

Milton Hershey was 79 years old. He had built from scratch a model town, a chocolate company that employed thousands, and an orphanage that housed and provided education for 1,500 children (which included my orphaned dad at this time). Mr. Hershey had just suffered a severe stroke after the divisive labor strike. It was Christmas Eve during one of the worst years in the Great Depression.

Because of the stroke, Mr. Hershey's doctor had ordered him to stay in his home. A nurse was often posted by the doctor to make sure he didn't sneak out. This was a big change for a man who had been constantly on the move everyday - visiting his farms, the orphanage, his many businesses and his sugar operations and a second orphanage in Cuba.

His wife had suffered serious illnesses and had never been able to have children. Soon after his beloved wife died decades earlier, Mr. Hershey had quietly donated almost his entire fortune to the orphanage. (The gift was not publicly revealed until several years later, by an investigative reporter in a front page article in the New York Times.)

His home was actually only two rooms in an upstairs corner of the Mansion. He allowed a club to use the rest of the building.

On a snowy Christmas Eve, Mr. Hershey had sent his nurse, driver and housekeeper home to be with their families, leaving him alone and in poor health in the large building.

Before Mr. Hershey's driver went home for the night, he convinced Mr. Hershey to go for a short drive around town. Mr. Hershey had not been out for some time and was very disappointed to see so little activity around the town. No one was out on the street and most of the homes seemed empty. Even the churches were dark and quiet on Christmas Eve. He was driven back to his home, feeling depressed. There seemed to be so little Christmas spirit in the town he had built.

His driver suggested he get some fresh air on the balcony. Mr. Hershey walked out and saw some candles below.

Hundreds of people from the choirs of every church in Hershey were below - singing "Silent Night." They had hidden their cars on a side road so they would not be noticed.

"Merry Christmas, Mr. Hershey" yelled the son of one of the chocolate workers. Mr. Hershey waved, but was speechless. He finally yelled out "And Merry Christmas to you, son!"

Mr. Hershey recovered, was rejuvenated and went on to lead the company and the orphanage MHS for another 8 years, including the years of World War II, when the company's products included a vitamin- enriched melt-resistant chocolate for the troops.


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The orphanage was renamed the Milton Hershey School and today continues to provide completely free education, housing and medical care (and college funds) for 1,800 needy kids. That school continues to be largely funded by the annual profits from Mr. Hershey's candy company.

“And when we give each other Christmas gifts in His name, let us remember that He has given us the sun and the moon and the stars, and the earth with its forests and mountains and oceans--and all that lives and move upon them. He has given us all green things and everything that blossoms and bears fruit and all that we quarrel about and all that we have misused--and to save us from our foolishness, from all our sins, He came down to earth and gave us Himself.”  Sigrid Undset 

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RAOK: If you see a vehicle trying to change lanes or exit a parking lot with difficulty (i.e., no one will let them in), stop, give them a friendly wave and let them enter your lane safely.

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What Child Is This? (Christmas) Reese Oliveira w/Masa Fukuda & Brynnley S. LIGHTtheWORLD
video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aRC6YSgdtGE

What child is this, who, laid to rest,
On Mary's lap is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet,
While shepherds watch are keeping?
This, this is Christ the King,
Whom shepherds guard and angels sing:
Haste, haste to bring Him laud,
The babe, the son of Mary.

So bring him incense, gold, and myrrh,
Come, peasant, king, to own him.
The King of kings salvation brings,
Let loving hearts enthrone him.
Raise, raise a song on high,
The virgin sings her lullaby
Joy, joy for Christ is born,
The babe, the Son of Mary.

The babe, the son of Mary.

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 Jello Poke Cake from Shelley
1 loaf frozen pound cake, thawed at room temp
2 cups whipped topping
3/4 c. boiling water
1 - 3 oz  package of cherry jello
1/4 c. cold water
 1 ounce semi-sweet chocolate 1 1/2 c. cherry pie filling, divided
Pierce cake with skewer at 1/2 inch interval, poking skewr through cake to bottom of pan.

Add boiling water to jello, stir until completely dissolved.  Stir in cold water; spoon over cake.  Refrigerate 1 hour.  Make curls from chocolate.

Invert cake onto platter.  Cut cake horizontally in half.  Spread bottom of cake with 1/3 c. cool whip, cover with 1 c. pie filling and top layer of cake .  Frost with remaining cool whip.  Garnish with remaining pie filling and chocolate curls.

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Matthew 2:11 ¶ And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh


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When I was growing up, our family did a lot of traveling by car. Mom and Dad rode in the front seat, with Dennis between them while Lee, Suzy and I sat in the backseat.  I was the youngest of the 3 of us backseaters, so I would start out in the middle.  I did a lot of grumbling.  I moaned. I groaned. When that did no good, I demanded a window seat because I felt sick.  I almost always got moved to the window when I pulled out the car sickness card because the truth of the matter was that I DID get car sick.  No one wanted to be between me and the window when that happened.   Suzy got her revenge at night by kicking me in bed.  One morning, Dad woke us up in what I thought was the middle of the night insisting we get an early start because it was going to be 120 degrees in Barstow that day and he wanted to get through there before we cooked to death. This was back in the days before air conditioning was standard in cars.  I grumbled.  I moaned.  I groaned.  None of it did any good.  I stuck out my lower lip and I pouted!  Then I looked out the hotel window and saw the most glorious sight I’d ever seen.  I saw the sun rise in the sky.  The colors were so beautiful that I asked my parents if that was where God lived, if we had found Heaven.  They laughed at me, but in my heart I believed that I had seen Heaven and that it was beautiful.   I was so good all that day!  All of my life I have longed to see Heaven again.  In 1 Corinthians 2:9 we read “But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.”  What a glorious place it must be, even more beautiful than my sunrise.  And just think, it’s all made possible through the love of Our Savior, Jesus Christ who entered this world as a tiny innocent child and grew to be the trail blazer, the path setter, the guide for all of us who wish to find our way to Heaven. Let us follow Him and love Him this Christmas season and always~~ Marilee

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‘Twas The Night Jesus Came

'Twas the night Jesus came and all through the house, 

not a person was praying, not one in the house.

The Bible was left on the shelf without care, 

for no one thought Jesus would come there.

The children were dressing to crawl into bed, 

not once ever kneeling or bowing their head.

And Mom in the rocking chair with babe on her lap, 

was watching the Late Show as I took a nap.

When out of the east there rose such a clatter, 

I sprang to my feet to see what was the matter.

Away to the window I flew like a flash, 

tore open the shutters and lifted the sash.

When what to my wondering eyes should appear, 

but Angels proclaiming that Jesus was here.

The light of His face made me cover my head, 

it was Jesus returning just like He'd said.

And though I possess worldly wisdom and wealth, 

I cried when I saw Him in spite of myself.

In the Book of Life which he held in his hand, 

was written the name of every saved man.

He spoke not a word as he searched for my name, 

when He said "it's not here," my head hung in shame.

The people whose names had been written with love, 

He gathered to take to his Father above.

With those who were ready He rose without sound, 

while all of the others were left standing around.

I fell to my knees but it was too late, 

I'd waited too long and thus sealed my fate.

I stood and I cried as they rose out of sight, 

Oh, if only I'd known that this was the night.

In the words of this poem the meaning is clear 

the coming of Jesus is now drawing near.

There's only one life and when comes the last call, 

We'll find out that the Bible was true after all.