"I truly believe that if we keep telling the Christmas story, singing the Christmas songs, and living the Christmas spirit, we can bring joy and happiness and peace to this world." -Norman Vincent Peale

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RAOK: Put down your cell phone or turn away from the screen when someone is talking to you

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To say that I am “directionally challenged” is an understatement.  Give me a map, and I will be very hard pressed to find north.  Maps and I have little in common.  We don’t speak the same language.  I plan to finish my Christmas shopping this week.  I texted my daughter and got the name of this little boutique which my granddaughter loves.  A gift card from there would be perfect!  I tried to find the store on maps (a phone app).  It gave me the name of the shopping mall it is in, but no instructions on how to find it once I get to the mall.  I had to call my daughter and get directions.  I trust her ability to get me there.  Rachel understood me and gave me visual clues of what I will see when I need to turn (turn left at Target, but instead of going into their parking lot, turn right and go around the corner.  It’s the the third store on the right).  Her instructions are simple and concise. There’s someone else I trust very much to give me instructions.  Jeremiah 17:7 - Blessed [is] the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is. I trust in Him.  As I think about this earth life, I think about how much I want to return to live with my Father in Heaven.  Fortunately, the Savior gave me a map I could follow.  You can follow it too.  John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him (substitute your name for “him”), I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.  Learn of Him, follow in His footsteps and he will lead us home. ~ Marilee

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CARAMELS
1 c. butter or margarine
2 1/4 c packed brown sugar
dash salt
1 c. light corn syrup
1 15-oz. can sweetened condensed milk
1 t. vanilla
Melt butter in heavy 3-quart saucepan. Add sugar and salt. Stir thoroughly. Stir in corn syrup. Mix well. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly. Cook and stir over MEDIUM heat to firm ball stage (245 EF), approx. 15 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla. Pour into buttered 9 x 9 x 2-inch pan. Cool and cut into squares. (I use parchment paper rather than buttering the pan. It makes it a little easier to remove from the pan.)

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Dr. Ralph F. Wilson has written many fabulous, beautiful Christmas stories.  He does not allow people to post his articles on their blogs or walls.  I would like very much to share with you The Cradle, a Christmas Story by Dr. Wilson.  Please follow this link and read this story.  http://www.joyfulheart.com/christmas/cradle.htm  Written in 1986, this story is “a touching story about Joseph building a cradle for the baby-to-be and then understanding God's cradle, the manger.”  It will be well worth your time.

Christmas is not as much about opening our presents as opening our hearts. ~J.L.W. Brooks

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RAOK: Try to make sure every person in a group conversation feels wanted and included

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Joseph's Song - How could it be
beautiful song, beautiful video
composed by Michael Card
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qvxo_hvlwZs&index=21&list=PL7651AA3E6A45A537

How could it be this baby in my arms
Sleeping now, so peacefully
The Son of God, the angel said
How could it be?

Lord, I know He's not my own
Not of my flesh, not of my bone
Still Father let this baby be
The son of my love

Father show me where I fit into this plan of yours
How can a man be father to the Son of God?
Lord for all my life I've been a simple carpenter
How can I raise a king, how can I raise a king?

He looks so small, His face and hands so fair
And when He cries the sun just seems to disappear
But when He laughs it shines again
How could it be?

Father show me where I fit into this plan of yours
How can a man be father to the Son of God?
Lord for all my life I've been a simple carpenter
How can I raise a king, how can I raise a king?

How could it be this baby in my arms
Sleeping now, so peacefully
The Son of God, the angel said
How could it be?
How could it be?

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Yesterday I was sent a link to this song.  Thank you.  On the video, this song says, “ If you’re missing someone this Christmas this song’s dedicated to you.”   It is performed by The Piano Guys and Craig Aven.  Jon Schmidt and his wife lost their daughter Annie in 2016.  She disappeared October 16, 2016.  Her body was found a month later.   She died as a result of a fall while hiking.  Her family really struggled that Christmas. This video tells a little of that struggle.  Jon Schmidt includes a prelude to the song which describes the loss they felt and the comfort this song gave them.

The Sweetest Gift.
Beautiful Video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0yFXfAGl17M

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Christmas Games

I love playing games. I looked on the internet to see what I could find in the line of fun games, and found a lot at the shutterfly site https://www.shutterfly.com/ideas/christmas-party-games/.  I can hardly wait for next Christmas so that we can play some of these with our grandchildren, like Spoons and 20 questions.  They have a game called Stocking Guessing Game which sounds like such fun.  “First, you need a host to put random items in a stocking. Once it's stuffed, tie a ribbon or string around the top of the stocking so that no one can peek. Sit in a circle and pass it around to let everyone feel what's inside. Give them note cards so that they can write down their guesses. The person who guesses the most correct items wins.”  Check them out and ENJOY!

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I have really appreciated those of you who sent me recipes.  Thank you very much.  I was  skeptical about this one, but it’s good.  Give it a chance!
                                                                                                                       
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches from Connie

Spread dijon mustard on 4 slices bread
 top with sliced cheddar cheese, cooked bacon and sliced apples.  Butter the bread, then cook in a skillet over medium-low heat until cheese melts.

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Deuteronomy 6:5  And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.

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Years ago, my son Keith ran into the house screaming that Gina had fallen in the river behind our home and was all muddy.  She was trying to rescue her cat.  We had a plank which extended from the bank to a little island a few feet into the river.  The water was only ankle deep.  Gina slipped on the icy wood and went into the water.  It was a cold, winter day and by the time she got to the house, she was shaking.  I took her wet clothes off of her and got her into a warm bath.  She cried for some time.  I asked her why she was crying and she said that she was in trouble.  She’d gotten her clothes muddy and it was almost Christmas!  I told her that I thought we could fix everything.  After her bath was done, she stuck her clothes in a basin and rinsed the worst of the mud off, then carried those wet sopping clothes to the washer.  I measured the soap for her and helped her start the washer.  She carried the basin outside (spilling a LOT of it on our floor) dumped the water out, then returned and wiped out the bathtub.  I told her that we were good.  I don’t remember if it was that day or the next, but I heard Gina talking and went to the front room and found her holding the baby Jesus from our nativity set and asking him to tell Santa that she was a good girl.  She believed that the Savior would intervene on her behalf.  That was almost 30 years ago.  She loved and trusted Jesus Christ.  He is there for all of us today.  He came to earth to be the Great Mediator, to meet the demands of both justice and mercy.  1 Timothy 2:5  “For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.”  That precious babe came to this would willing and able to redeem us. What an incredible gift!~~Marilee

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The Legend of the African Drummer Boy

As news of Christ spread through the land
and wise men came to bring,
Gold and myrrh and frankincense
to the little King,

A drummer boy who saw the gifts
not knowing what to do,
Wished for something special
he could give the infant too.

And so that night, the story goes,
the boy went to the stable,
And softly beat upon his drum
as best as he was able.

The Baby touched the drummer's hand
and smiled at him in peace,
Then snuggled in the new, fresh hay
and gently fell asleep.

And so the legend tells us
if we pause a while and pray,
Remembering it's Jesus that
we celebrate today.

When we close our eyes on Christmas night
the drummer boy will come,
To put God's children sound asleep,
with a soft rum-pa-tum-tum.

Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen. ~Author unknown, attributed to a 7-year-old named Bobby

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O Come, O Come, Emmanuel
Vocal Point
video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AdR79P-2ewo

oh come oh come emmanuel and ransom captive Israel
that mourns in lonely exile here until the Son of God appears

Rejoice, Rejoice, Emmanuel shall come to thee oh Israel (oh come oh come emmanuel oh come)

Oh come thou King of David come
and open wide our heavenly home
make safe a way that leads to thee
and close the paths to misery

Rejoice, Rejoice, Emmanuel shall come to thee Oh Israel

Oh come oh come thou rod of Jesse free
From every foe deliver them
that trust thy mighty power to save
and give them victory over the grave

emmanuel
(rejoice, rejoice)
shall come to thee oh israel (take higher)

Isaiah 7  14 Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.
RAOK: Do a favor without asking for or expecting anything in return

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Good Sabbath, everyone ~~  Marilee

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CHRISTMAS IS FOR LOVE
extracted from   www.inspirationalstories.com

Christmas is for love. It is for joy, for giving and sharing, for laughter, for reuniting with family and friends, for tinsel and brightly decorated packages. But mostly, Christmas is for love.
I had not believed this until a small elf-like student with wide-eyed innocence and soft rosy cheeks gave me a wondrous gift one Christmas.
Mark was an 11 year-old orphan who lived with his aunt, a bitter middle-aged woman greatly annoyed with the burden of caring for her dead sister's son. She never failed to remind young Mark, if it hadn't been for her generosity, he would be a vagrant homeless waif. Still, with all this scolding and chilliness at home, he was a sweet and gentle child.
I had not noticed Mark particularly until he began staying after class each day (at the risk of arousing his aunt's anger, I later found) to help me straighten up the classroom. We did this quietly and comfortably, not speaking much, but enjoying the solitude of that hour of the day. When we did talk, Mark spoke mostly of his mother. Though he was quite small when she died, he remembered a kind, gentle, loving woman, who always spent much time with him.
As Christmas drew nearer, however, Mark failed to stay after school each day. I looked forward to his coming and when, as the days passed, and he continued to scamper hurriedly from the room after class, I stopped him one afternoon and asked why he no longer helped me in the room. I told him how I had missed him, and his large gray eyes lit up eagerly as he replied, "Did you really miss me?" I explained how he had been my best helper. "I was making you a surprise," he whispered confidentially. "It's for Christmas." With that, he became embarrassed and dashed from the room. He didn't stay after school anymore after that.
Finally came the last school day before Christmas. Mark crept slowly into the room late that afternoon with his hands concealing something behind his back. "l have your present," he said timidly when I looked up. "I hope you like it." He held out his hands, and there lying in his small palms was a tiny wooden box.
"It's beautiful, Mark. Is there something in it?" I asked, opening the top to look inside.
"Oh you can't see what's in it," he replied, "and you can't touch it or taste it, or feel it. But Mother always said it makes you feel good all the time, warm on cold nights, and safe when you're all alone."
I gazed into the empty box. "What is it, Mark," I asked gently, "that will make me feel so good?"
"It's love," he whispered softly, "and Mother always said it's best when you give it away." And he turned quietly and left the room.
So now I keep a small box made of wood on the piano in my living room and only smile as inquiring friends raise quizzical eyebrows when I explain to them that there is love in it.
Yes, Christmas is for gaiety, mirth and song, for good and wonderous gifts.
But mostly, Christmas is for love.

For those of you who have lost someone or are dealing a sense of grief, or sorrow, today’s blog involves coping with loss, sorrow and death during the holidays.  I wanted to let you know in case some of you are not comfortable reading about this subject.  My comments are italicized.

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A Christmas candle is a lovely thing;

It makes no noise at all,

But softly gives itself away.

~Eva Logue

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Luke 2:10
12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

Nat King Cole - A Cradle in Bethlehem
audio
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5EBVHnLUlE

Sing sweet and low your lullaby till angels say amen
 A mother tonight is rocking a cradle in Bethlehem

While wise men follow through the dark a star that beckons them, 
a mother tonight is rocking a cradle in Bethlehem

A little child shall lead them, the prophet said of old
In storm and tempest lead them until the bell is tolled

Sing sweet and low your lullaby till angels say amen
 A mother tonight is rocking a cradle in Bethlehem

Sing sweet and low your lullaby till angels say amen
 A mother tonight is rocking a cradle in Bethlehem

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RAOK: Call your grandparents, or another family member if your grandparents are no longer with you. 


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Snowman Luminary
https://www.countryliving.com/diy-crafts/tips/g2132/mason-jar-christmas-crafts/?slide=14


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 Apple FRITTERS from Darlene

Peel and core 2 apples,slice into 1/4 inch thick rings.  Toss with 1 c. buttermilk and 2 T sugar.  Whisk 1 1/2 c. flour with a pinch each of cinnamon and salt.  Dredge the apples in flour, then return to to the buttermilk, then dredge in flour again.  Deep fry in 350 degree oil until crisp drain on paper towels, sprinkle with sugar

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Happy Thanksgiving!  Merry Christmas!  Happy New Year!  Holidays are supposed to be happy, right?  Peaceful? Calm? Loving?  I think that for many of us, they are.  But there are many who are dealing with sorrow and grief.  For them, Christmas is something to be survived rather than enjoyed.  While those of us who love and care for them can’t take the pain away, we can give comfort.  We have been commanded to:   
Isaiah 40:1 Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God. 
1 Thessalonians 5:11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.
I’m not a psychologist, or a sociologist or anyone trained in those kind of fields, but I have worked with Hospice for almost 20 years.  I have also lost many who are close to me.  My mother's funeral was 2 days before Thanksgiving.  My sister died on New Year’s Day.  I’ve lost 2 other sisters, my father, and all of my aunts and uncles.  I can tell you from experience, that they I miss them.  I'm lucky because they live on in my memories and are still in my heart.  I often think about them during the holidays and and wish they were here to share the good times. Social  situations can be very hard for those who are grieving.  If you know someone who is going to be at a gathering, offer to take them, to stand with them, to be near so that they are not alone.  Take them home when they want to go.  Please don’t tell them not to grieve, that right is theirs. And if they cry, tears are not the enemy.  They are not a reflection of a lack of faith.  Tears are a reflection of the worth of the person who is gone.  It’s important to listen.  Let them tell their stories, listen to them.  Did I mention to listen to them, you don't have to talk -- just listen!  If you have pictures, take them, share them.  Every time I hear the words to A Cradle in Bethlehem, I think of my mom.  It's a good memory.  She loved that song.  It’s hard sometimes to remember why we should be happy at Christmas.  The answer is because a baby was born in Bethlehem, over 2,000 years ago, a baby whose birth brought hope to the world.  That hope still lives.  Whether your sorrow comes from job problems, unemployment, marital problems, divorce, struggles with rebellious children, or just wishing that things were different, you’re not alone.  The answer is always the same.  Hope comes through Our Savior, Jesus christ.   John 14:27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. ~~ Marilee

I wrote this story and used it in an email in 2001.

~~~
"Love you, Mom"
"Hi, Mom. I’m sorry I’m late, but I just couldn’t get away any earlier. You know how it is. The kids are so busy–it seems like I spend more time in the car running them places than I do anywhere else. Yesterday I had to take Greg to piano lessons–he’s getting ready for a recital, Pam to gymnastics and Pete to cub scouts. We got stuck in a traffic jam on the freeway, and were almost two hours late getting home. I just “knew” that Brent would be mad, but he wasn’t. I walked in the house and there was Christmas music playing and Brent had the table set and dinner was ready–hot dogs and canned chili! Boy, do I love that man.... Yes, I know mom, he was your Christmas present for me. You’ll never let me forget that you saw him first, will you? I still don’t understand how you did it. One look at him standing there in the hallway by my dorm room with that box of Christmas decorations you sent and I was lost. He stayed and helped me put them up, and then we popped popcorn and made hot chocolate and talked about skiing and blue skies and college and life and dating and marriage. You name it, we talked about it. We always could talk together, Mom. I’m glad. I’ve needed someone to talk to lately. It’s okay, mom, but it hasn’t been easy... I don’t want to talk about that, though...not now. Remember how you always said that you hoped I’d have a daughter just like me? Boy, do I! Pam proved it again, Mom. She was snooping and opened the basement closet I hid all of the things from Santa in. That closet hasn’t been used in years! I was so sure it was safe. Oh well, none of the presents were wrapped, so I’m going to have to take the presents "we" got for the kids and trade them for the ones from "Santa." I’m just lucky she didn’t find ALL of them. Remember the year I found the presents that Aunt Shirley hid at our house? I thought they were from you and Dad so I opened them. I played with them every day and even broke a couple. Aunt Shirley was so mad! She said I’d come to no good that was for sure. But you believed in me, mom, didn’t you? Christmas makes me smile all over, mama. I still remember the year we slept under the Christmas tree. What was I? ... 5? ... maybe 6? When I woke up the next morning, I knew that Santa and the elves had been there because I was covered in angel dust –silver glitter. That was magic, Mom, and I loved it. Santa Claus and angels! We were the only ones who knew the secret–that Santa’s elves were really angels. Every year after that, when I woke up on Christmas morning, I’d find sprinkles of glitter all over me. I always felt so good because every year I knew the angels loved me. That was the best present ever, Mom... uh-oh, I can’t believe it’s so late. I’ve got to leave now to get Daddy. He’s doing pretty good. We’ll be back in an hour or so. We’re going to set up a tree for you, mama--right here. See, I’ve made the perfect spot for it, and next spring we'll plant some roses. Tonight I'm going to tell the kids about sleeping under the tree. In the morning, after we’ve opened our presents, we’ll bring the kids here--it's such a peaceful place. They’ll see angel dust on the ground and a little bag of glitter under the tree. When they find it, they’ll remember waking up with glitter all over their hair and face and pillows and realize that they have their very own Christmas Angel, mom... The best one of all! Love you mom. "Merry Christmas."

When it’s Christmas, man is bigger and is better in his part; he is keener for the service that is prompted by the heart. All the petty thoughts seem to vanish for a while, and the true reward he’s seeking is the glory of a smile. Then for others he is toiling and somehow it seems to me that at Christmas he is almost what God wanted him to be. Edgar A. Guest

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RAOK:  If you spill something on the counter , wipe it up.

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Angels We Have Heard on High (Christmas w/ 32 fingers and 8 thumbs) - The Piano Guys
Instrumental with really fun video
www.youtube.com/watch?v=n543eKIdbUI

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Luke 2:10-11
10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

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BERRY Smoothies
1 c. orange juice
1 c. fresh strawberries
1 c. fresh raspberries
1 c. blueberries
1 handful spinach
3 c. ice cubes

Combine all ingredients in a blender and process at high speed until smooth.

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We have a special needs grandson.  Over the past 5 years, I have had the opportunity to spend a great deal of time with him in his home.  He has also spent a lot of time here.  It has not always been easy.  He can be very aggressive at times and we don’t know how to help him. He’s our grandson, and he is a precious child of God.  We love him very much, I love him very much.   One day I was sitting in the recliner at my daughter’s home, crocheting, and he walked into the room.  I asked him what he wanted and he said, “Hold Luc.”  He climbed onto my lap and laid his head on my shoulder.  He was content just to sit there, to feel loved.  What a joyous memory.  At times he asks me, “Pomma (that’s his name for me) love me?”  “Papa (grandpa) love me?”  The answer is always yes.   This morning I thought to myself that I am a lot like Lucas.  I make mistakes.  Sometimes I break the rules.  Sometimes I’m unsure about myself and where I fit into God’s plan.  Does he still love me as imperfect as I am ?  The answer is “yes.”  Our Savior, Jesus Christ loves each of us.  There are times when I simply want to be with Him, to climb onto His lap and to feel safe and secure, just like Lucas.  Obviously, I can’t do that, but I know that He is always there.  I can go to Him in prayer and feel His comforting support.  I can read the scriptures and draw strength and guidance from them.  He came to earth as a tiny baby in Bethlehem to bring us hope.  He sacrificed his own life to give us life everlasting. This Christmas, let us share His stories, and help others around us to understand His love.  Let us go about doing good. ~~ Marilee

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This internet site has 25 fun projects which can be made with children of all ages.  As you teach your children of Christ, tie in these ornaments.  Help them make them.  Give them for gifts with plates of goodies for neighbors and friends.  Let the children explain what they represent 

http://www.southernmadesimple.com/25-days-of-christ-centered-christmas-crafts-for-kids/

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Shine for me Again: Star of Bethlehem
by Sherri O. Bird

The night was long, we traveled far,
at times I looked but could not see the star.
Yet still it shone
unveiling then the way to Bethlehem.
My heart held fear mid puzzled joy,
for I was only a small shepherd boy.
And on a hillside soft and green,
I heard an angel sing.

I saw the midnight sky aflame
with radiant angels bathed in light, holy light.
Bringing word that Christ was born and beckoning to find him,
go and find him.
A sweeter face I ne’er will see
Than of those loving eyes smiling up at me.
I found a King;
I found a friend that night in Bethlehem.

But life goes on, years beyond one brief night of my youth.
Time clouds my vision of truth, of truth
And tho I stumble and fall I can hear someone call,
"Do not despair, your star is still there."
That Christmas night so long ago has filled my life with light because I know
that he lives now as he did then, a King in Bethlehem,
Whose love never ends. Shine for me again,
Star of Bethlehem.

Christmas is forever, not for just one day,

for loving, sharing, giving, are not to put away

like bells and lights and tinsel, in some box upon a shelf.

The good you do for others is good you do yourself...

~Norman Wesley Brooks (1923–2002), “Let Every Day Be Christmas,” 1976 — 

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RAOK: When you go somewhere to get or do something, ask the people around you if you can pick up anything they need.

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Afterglow - "The Holy Child"
music + slideshow
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zGQvI7QmSH4

Holy child, this Christmas, is yours
May we give our hearts
Holy child, forever, we’ll celebrate your birth

Help me remember that there’s a reason
Why I give on Christmas morning
Because of you, you gave my life to me
You gave it all for free
I’ll give your love for Christmas, and feel my heart receive
Give to those around me, like you gave to me
(Chorus 3X)

Holy child, Holy child, Holy child

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Family Activity
There’s nothing like music at Christmas time. For a fun evening, make yourself a game kit. Place the following items in a box. Have someone reach into the box and pull one out and guess what song they represent. Give them three points if they get it right. If they don’t, then hum the first few stanzas of the song. Give them 1 point if they get it right then. These are a few we’ve put together. Have fun making up your own.

band-aid ~~~ O Holy Night (Fall on your knees..)
hershey’s kiss ~~~~~ I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus
paper and pen ~~~~~ Santa Claus is coming to town
map ~~~~~ Where Are you, Christmas?
Chestnuts ~~~~~ The Christmas Song (chestnuts roasting on an open fire)
drumstick ~~~~~ The Little Drummer Boy
popcorn ~~~~~ Let It Snow
Jingle bell ~~~~~ Jingle Bells
whistle ~~~~~ All I want for Christmas is my two Front Teeth
birthday candles ~~~~~ The Birthday of a King
flashlight ~~~~~ Bring a Torch, Jeanette, Isabella
toy boat ~~~~~ I Saw Three ships
candy canes ~~~~~ The Christmas Waltz
sprig of holly ~~~~~ Deck the Halls
silk rose ~~~~~ Gesu Bambino
ear plugs ~~~~~ Silent Night
small stone ~~~~~ Rockin Around the Christmas Tree
Christmas stocking ~~~~~ Here Comes Santa Claus
mistletoe ~~~~~ A Holly Jolly Christmas
Canned pears ~~~~~ 12 Days of Christmas

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Bacon Dip

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 cups sour cream
1/2 c bacon bits
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 c. chopped green onion
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees..  I n a bowl, combine all ingredients.  Place in 1 quart baking dish.  Cover.  Heat for 25-30 minutes or until hot.  Serve with fresh veggies, chips or crackers

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John 13: 34-35
34 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

I read a story once about a little 4 year old girl named Julie who overheard her parents talking about an upcoming blood drive.  She didn’t understand what that referred to and so she asked her parents about it and they explained that sometimes people need more blood to live – after an accident, or an operation for example.  Several days later Julie came to her mom and said, “If you ever need blood, Mom, you can have mine.  You can count on me.”  Touched, her mother said, “Thanks Julie.”  About a month or so later, she discovered that Julie thought she would have to give her Mom all of her blood, and that she would die because of it.  She was a very relieved little girl to find out that was not the case.  They would only take one pint if they ever needed her blood.   Julie told her mother that she would have given her everything she needed.  As a mother, this story brought a tear to my eye as I thought of such a loving, caring little girl.  At this time of year it strikes a special chord in my heart.  I have a brother, a very special brother who willingly spilt every drop of His blood for me and for you – for all of us.  In our homes this Christmas, let us remember to teach our little ones of the Savior’s love and of our responsibility to share that love with the world.  I found instructions for origami hearts which can be made easily.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nnV262Egucw 
Have a heart party.  It sounds fun to me and as we make these hearts with our children or grandchildren, have them write on the unseen side (so that’s it is folded inside) a gift of love or a service they would be willing to perform for someone.  They can make as many as they want, and have them share these hearts with each other, with friends, neighbors or anyone who needs the Savior’s love in their lives. ~~ Marilee

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ONE LITTLE LIGHT

There once was a shining Christmas tree
Standing out where all could see.
Its brilliance captured every eye
And seemed to cheer each passer-by.
"The lights are beautiful," they'd say,
and hesitate to walk away.
The tree stood proud, ablaze with light,
For each small bulb kept burning bright.

Then one globe was heard to say,"I'm tired of burning night and day.
I think I'll just go out and rest,
For I'm too tired to do my best.
Besides, I know I am so small,
I doubt I would be missed at all."

Then one child lovingly touched the light.
"Look, mother! This one shines so bright.
Of all the lights upon the tree,
This one looks the best to me."

"Oh, my goodness!" said the little light.
I almost dimmed right out of sight.
I thought perhaps no one would care
If I failed to shine my share."
With that, a glowing brilliance came,
For all the lights had felt the same.

We are like this Christmas tree,
The shining lights are you and me.
Each of us has a space to fill
With love and lessons and good will.
Let's keep our tree ablaze with lights,
With testimonies burning bright.
For we are a living tree
That lights the way to eternity.

Gifts of time and love are surely the basic ingredients of a truly merry Christmas. ~Peg Bracken

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RAOK:   Ask  your spouse about their day and listen to their reply.  Don’t look at a phone, TV, or computer.

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1 John 4:7 - Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.

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Today is my husband’s birthday.  As always, today’s blog reflects my love for him.  One of Dean’s great loves is his children.  He really gets a kick out of this video.  He watches it and says “Some people’s kids.”  We read that the little boy keeping rhythm with him in this song, is Tennessee’s son.

Tennessee Ernie Ford Christmas
Clip from his TV show
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=drYeE1VGR6I

Children, Go Where I Send Thee"

Children, go where I send thee
Where you gonna send me?
I'm gonna send you four by four
Because four is the four that stood at the door
Three for the Hebrew children
Two for Paul and Silas
One was a little bitty - baby
Born in Bethlehem.

Children, go where I send thee
How you gonna send me?
I’m going send you six by six
Because Six for the six that couldn’t get  fixed
And five for the five that came back alive
Four is the four that stood at the door
Three for the Hebrew children
Two for Paul and  Silas
One was a little bitty - baby
Born in Bethlehem

Children, go where I send thee
How you gonna send me?
I’m gonna send you
Eight for eight because eight for the eight that stood at the gate...
Seven for the seven that couldn’t get to heaven...
Six for the six that couldn’t get  fixed
Five for the five that came back alive
Four is the four that stood at the door
Three for the Hebrew children
Two for Paul and  Silas
One was a little bitty - baby
Born in Bethlehem

Children, go where I send thee
How you gonna send me?
I’m gonna send you ten by ten
ten by ten that couldn’t get in
nine by nine that come in behind
Eight for eight because eight for the eight that stood at the gate...
Seven for the seven that couldn’t get to heaven...
Six for the six that couldn’t get  fixed
Five for the five that came back alive
Four is the four that stood at the door
Three for the Hebrew children
Two for Paul and  Silas
One was a little bitty - baby
Born in Bethlehem

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Reeces Peanut Butter Torte

1 box (1 lb 5 oz) Betty Crocker™ Supreme triple chunk brownie mix
Water, vegetable oil and eggs called for on brownie mix box for cakelike brownies
1 cup Betty Crocker™ Rich & Creamy chocolate frosting (from 16 oz container)
9 Reese's™ peanut butter cups miniatures, unwrapped, coarsely chopped1.

1.  Heat oven to 350°F (325°F for dark or nonstick pan). Line 9-inch square pan with foil so foil extends about 2 inches over sides of pan. Spray foil with cooking spray. Make brownies as directed on box for cakelike brownies, for 9-inch pan. Cool completely, about 1 1/2 hours.
2. Remove from pan by lifting foil; peel foil away. Cut brownie in half; place 1 half on serving plate.
3.  Spoon frosting into microwavable bowl. Microwave uncovered on High 15 seconds. Stir frosting until smooth. Spread half of frosting over brownie half on plate. Place other half of brownie on top; pour remaining frosting over top. Sprinkle with candies. Refrigerate 30 minutes to set. Store loosely covered.

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DECORATING HINT:
Gather pine cones at your nearby park. Boil them in a big pot to kill anything living in them.. They will close up tight while wet. Let them sit on newspaper in a warm area for several days to dry. The pine cones will open up beautifully. If desired, brush a little cinnamon oil on them. Buy ribbon in your favorite Christmas colors. Tie ribbon into bows, and using florist wire, tie the bows to the pine cones. Use the same wire to tie the pine cones onto your tree. Beautiful, Fragrant and Natural!

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Christmas Version Of The Love Chapter: I Corinthians 13
author unknown

If I decorate my house perfectly with plaid bows,
Strands of twinkling lights and shiny balls,
But do not show love to my family, I'm just another decorator.
If I slave away in the kitchen,
Baking dozens of Christmas cookies,
Preparing gourmet meals
And arranging a beautifully adorned table at mealtime,
But do not show love to my family, I'm just another cook.
If I work at the soup kitchen, Carol in the nursing home
And give all that I have to charity,
But do not show love to my family,
It profits me nothing.
If I trim the spruce with shimmering angels,
And crocheted snowflakes,
Attend a myriad of holiday parties,
And sing in the choir's cantata,
But do not focus on Christ, I have missed the point.
Love stops the cooking to hug the child.
Love sets aside the decorating to kiss the husband.
Love is kind, though harried and tired.
Love doesn't envy another's home that has coordinated Christmas china and table linens.
Love doesn't yell at the kids to get out of the way, but is thankful they are there to be in the way.
Love doesn't give only to those who are able to give in return,
but rejoices in giving to those who can't.
Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
Love never fails.
Video games will break, pearl necklaces will be lost, golf clubs will rust...
But giving the gift of love will endure.

~*~*~*~*~

Today’s story is about a message of love delivered to a woman from her husband’s former partner.  It means so much to me to be able to tell Dean “I love you” and to know what a great gift God has given us, the ability to love.

In the Line of Duty
extracted from https://www.guideposts.org/inspiration/angels/in-the-line-of-duty
I shared my hopes and dreams with my partner, while we patrolled the streets of New York City.
by Jeannette Torres

From Guideposts- Posted on Oct 12, 2009

Florida was a long way from New York City, where I’d lived most of my life.

This was a big change. Getting out of my car I had to remind myself that despite the heat and the palm trees, Christmas was almost here.

With the stress of moving it was easy to forget. How could I feel that old reliable Christmas spirit when everything around me was 100 percent new?

I went inside the bank to set up a safe deposit box. Shaking hands with a bank employee, I glanced at her name tag: Ms. Soto. “My old partner in the NYPD was named Joseph Soto,” I said.

“What a coincidence!” the woman said. “Joe was my uncle.”

What were the odds that here in sunny Florida I’d run into the family of my old partner from New York City? Partners got to be family, almost. The longer you worked together, the closer you got.

Joe and I had patrolled the streets of Glendale, Queens, for 11 years. When you spend hours together in a patrol car you do a lot of talking. Joe and I shared our hopes and dreams, and protected one another.

“We lost touch after he retired to Kentucky with his wife,” I said. “How is he?”

Young Ms. Soto looked away. “Uncle Joe died,” she said. “Alzheimer’s. My aunt is having a hard time.”

“She was the apple of his eye,” I said.

I should write her a letter, I thought. Tell her what a great man her husband was.

I finished up my banking business and promised to see Ms. Soto soon.

As soon as I had a quiet moment to myself, I sat down to write. I was back in my patrol car, listening to Joseph talk about his unending love and devotion to his wife and family.

“My wife is a strong person,” he’d always say, “and that’s what makes me love her deeply.” I wrote down everything I could remember.

On my next visit to the bank, I sought out Joseph’s niece, a white envelope in my hand. “Would you see that this gets to Joseph’s wife?”

“Of course,” Ms. Soto said. “Have a merry Christmas.”

I walked out of the bank feeling like it was Christmas after all—no matter how hot it was.

Somehow that old reliable spirit found me and made me a bit more settled in my new surroundings. That weekend, the telephone rang. “Hello?”

A woman was crying. “It’s Mrs. Soto,” she managed. “All his life, my husband was an expressive man. Always kind and generous with his feelings to everyone. But toward the end of his life Alzheimer’s stole that from him. From us. For so long I’ve missed him telling me he loves me. Your letter was the best Christmas gift I could have ever received.”

I hung up the phone feeling like something special had happened. Miles from home, in a new town, I’d gotten the chance to play Santa for an old friend. That old reliable Christmas spirit had found me.

Palm trees or not.