We gathered together and we talked about the many names of Christ and why each is so important. We introduced an "Emmanuel Wreath" which is 24 candles each representing different names associated with Jesus. We each took one name and so we covered 8 names that night. Each member of the family did such an amazing job sharing what the name meant in general and then on a persona note shared what the name meant in terms of their own lives. There was a very special spirit as each person shared their personal testimonies of the Savior and brought new insights to each name. We lit a candle for every name and placed each on in its' respective spot on the wooden wreath. We watched the flames flicker as we listened to each name. It was a very spiritual experience and it left me realizing how much power there is a name, especially His name. I was taken by the depth of everyone's experiences in researching and then reflecting on how the name they were assigned had impacted their lives.
This was a special Christmas in that we were able to be together with Landon as he came up to see friends. That was a wonderful time to reconnect and be a family.
It was a also special because it was probably the last time we will be with McKenna and Aaron for a while as they took off to San Antonio to start their new lives together. We hugged a little tighter and our hearts were really full as we said good bye.
It was a special Christmas because we invited God to be part of our lives this year more abundantly. We reflected and shared the many miracles that have happened to our family over the past few years. When you look for and seek miracles, they do come. We have a deeper testimony of that and we feel so blessed to count as many as we did.
I love this painting that McKenna did for her good friends this season. I wasn't able to watch her paint it but I just love it. It instantly caught my attention with the color scheme and the fact that is wasn't perfectly detailed with facials and background. There is a spirit that emanates from it despite not seeing the faces of each person. I love the humility of those around Him, seeking and wanting to learn. The unfinished background is like a reminder of the simplicity of the manager where he was born. As if it doesn't matter where they are, but rather that they are in His loving presence.
Having Jaxon join our clan was super deluxe! He has won our hearts and has inspired us as we learn more about him and to be able to meet his incredible Mother and siblings. Everything was better with him there and we are so grateful for the incredible person he is. He brought his own unique perspective and spirit to the family and it made a difference.
I love that Christmas came on a Sunday this year. A quiet service full of music was just right. Simple, peaceful and light. I feel our burdens were lightened and our spirits burned a bit brighter than normal.
They say that if you can find Christ in Christmas then you win the prize..... I believe we did find Him more intimately this season and it did make all the difference in the world. The lasting ripples of that experience will linger in our hearts for sure....
