It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

As the song says - "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!" And for me it certainly is a wonderful time! 2009 proved to be a much better year in real estate and I am feeling much more at ease this December than December of 2008. I am thankful that the Lord continued to provide and bless and that He gave me the strength to trust Him.

I am thankful that all our gifts are purchased, wrapped and tucked under the tree. I have enjoyed that our social schedule has been fairly light. We have committed ourselves to not "over comitting" ourselves. I have enjoyed reflecting on our Jesus and what his birth means for us. I have also been looking beyond the manger to the cross! Thinking not only of the Baby Jesus... but Jesus, True God and True Man. The Jesus that was born into this world to redeem the world from sin. The Jesus who came into this fallen world to save it! What joy fills my heart! I know Christmas can be filled with many emotions... some not as positive as others. There is heartache, loneliness, anger, dissension... I am praying hard for those who's joy is dim and heartache is great. I am thankful that Christ will return in God's time and fulfill His eternal plan! I have reflected on John 3:17 quite a bit during these days of Advent. John 3:16 is perhaps the most famous verse in the Bible. Many non-believers even know that verse... however I always tell my husband - I sure wish when someone shares John 3:16 that they share John 3:17 ~ For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Hallelujah! God sent His son to save the world, not condemn the world! That's a message worth sharing! Share that message my friends!

Speaking of sharing... I thought I would post some pictures I have taken this year of my home! I have really enjoyed the gift of my home this season and I wanted to share it with you! Sure wish I could have each and e very one of you over for coffee or tea in front of my fireplace!

Last year my dad gave each one of us girls some of my Grandfather's Socony Tavern Candles... I always loved them when I was a kid and will treasure them always!  I have some displayed in one of the guest rooms and some on our mantle!

A few under glass on our sideboard!

Our Godson gave us these ornaments several years ago...

 he calls us Tante und Onkel (Aunt & Uncle in German)

I love these glittery snowflake ornaments on the tree in our small guestroom!

One of my Nativity Sets - I purchased at a craft fair many, many years ago...

& a new addition My Nativity Cross

MERRY CHRISTMAS FRIENDS!