Hints of Christmas

Last week I went to a Christmas party where you had to wear your favorite Christmas wrapping material. So as you can see I wore some raphia/straw tip stuff with a gift tag. So who's the guy with his head in the box? He would want you to know that you are not supposed to peek or shake the box!

I shared my hair trimmings with Julie.

As always, to not include a picture of my nephew, Elijah would be criminal. He's growing and now starting to smile lots!


A couple weeks ago Staci and her family came down for a Christmas concert at the HPAC. (missed you Autumn) There were several selections from the Messiah which were my favorites.


Now for some thoughts. I'm blessed to have some great people in my life. And the longer I live, the more I realize how much I need people. Even more, I realize how much I need Jesus. It seems that as you come closer to people and to Jesus, the more edges you notice that need smoothing. My first response to such is usually to run and hide because that's where I don't have to be anything greater, better or know the growth pains. How was it with Jesus? Coming here to reveal God to us was no easy thing. That process produced pain all around Him and all inside Him but He didn't run and hide, He persevered. He had our best in mind. He wasn't focused on Himself or how hurt He was. He was determined to free our hearts to dance and sing, to trust and know Him fully. So if you're ever wondering if anyone cares that you are going through painful times, Jesus does. He is riding in the boat with you. Those waves, whatever they are, He can still. It was in the eye of the storm that the disciples saw Jesus' face revealed. Go ahead and run, but let it be into the arms of people who can smooth the edges, teach and encourage you to look into the storm, into the revealed face of Christ. He will say,"Peace be still."