the reason for Christmas

Troy has had a great time in school. I appreciate the fact that he is having fun with his friends as they watch the polar express and the origianal (as they call it) Christmas story (without Jesus). I know that schools can't and won't push Christianity because it will offend people. I don't like that at all, but what are you gonna do? That's the world today right?

Today, I asked the teacher how his day went and she said the kids liked the movie and that Troy and his friends played reindeer today. She also went on to talk about the Christmas story and said she hopes that the children will truly believe in Santa. I knew she meant well, but that comment kind of disturbed me a little. As much as I think the whole "Santa thing" is cute, that's NOT what I want Troy to think about this season.

I want to make sure that my boys know what Christmas is REALLY all about. Not presents, not Santa, but Jesus who truly loves them, died for them, and wants to live in their hearts. Jesus is the reason why there's love and gift-giving.

They are going to learn so much in school that I don't agree with, but I pray that they will come to know Jesus and find their hope in him.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not against the whole delight with Santa. St Nick was a good guy and was caring. There is a picture that my Grandma would have hanging on the wall at her house. It was Santa coming to visit babY Jesus and bowing down to Him. How tremendous is that?? Now that's what it's all about!

Merry Christmas Everyone!

anniversary

Chad and I are blessed to have each other, and tomorrow on the 14th is our wedding anniversary. What a beautiful Christmas wedding we were able to have. As I look back, everything fell into place for us because of help from friends and family. It could have easily been an expensive affair, but the Lord provided the food, place for a reception in Knowlsville, and a GREAT restaurant to have our rehearsal dinner (thanks to Aunt Ellie) on Chad's side. (The Carleton Grill).
Tomorrow, Chad and I are going to have some time to ourselves. We will be going to see a movie, going to the Olive Garden, and Christmas shopping in the mall. I can't wait! I love my hubby so much, and even if we just sat on the couch with each other and did nothing, I wouldn't care. I am happy just to spend a few minutes with him, much less a whole day. haha!
I am thankful to have Chad this Christmas. Who are you thankful for? Please share.

Troy

Troy had his surgery yesterday on both his eyes. Doctor Awner, who specializes in this type of surgery worked on him. He adjusted the muscle in both eyes so that they wouldn't wander and so Troy could see better out of his left eye.

He woke up scared to death, but soon calmed down once I got to his bedside. He yelled out a big "I love you" and it just broke my heart! I really thank God for my little guy. As I was at his bedside stroking his hair and holding his hand, I started feeling faint. It was probably a combination of things. Emotions, not enough to eat, the hospital smells, seeing him like this..... The nurse noticed and took care of me. Everything turned out fine, and Troy is bouncing back nice!

I really have a nervous time driving in the city and I almost ran into the back of a car that was in a funeral procession. Crazy!! It was also snowy out. I was thanking God that He brought us back safely. I was also thankful that my mother-in-law came with me and we were able to have some time together. We certainly have our differences, and I have to watch my attitude, but it was nice to have the company. She really takes care of my family.

I am getting ready to send out my Christmas cards early as I will be really busy from here on out. The season of Christmas excites me. I watched the Nativity Story a few days ago. It was so touching! In my group Prodigy, we are learning about Mary and what she must have felt about herself, her family, and about Jesus. What a strong and deserving woman!! The story of Jesus' birth leaves me in awe! I am so glad that God sent Jesus for me!

Happy Christmas Season!