Dash Away,Dash Away,Dash Away All

I'm sitting in my living room this Christmas morning - the tree is lit and the house is silent.  There seems to be a gazillion presents under the tree and I'm thinking, "Good thing the kids don't need anything,"  For the fist time in 13 years, Dan's parents are spending the holidays in the United States; quite possibly experiencing 'climate' shock' - with the cold weather and snow.

 

I've been reflecting on our visit from Bruno and thinking about the Spirit of Christmas and how we've seen it come alive these past 24 days since his (Bruno's) arrival.  Every morning Kailer anxiously spied down Bruno and excitedly shared his many adventures with all who would listen.  The innocence of his heart brought back vivid memories of Christmases long ago when my own spirit wasn't hindered by the reality of growing up.  Even our sweet Aylah has taken to pointing to Bruno and saying "Brew" with a big grin on her face.

 

Dan lost a friend/coworker this Fall from a rock climbing accident - a man who truly represented the way we should live our own life. He loved his family, friends and most importantly God! On my 33rd birthday I sat in a room surrounded by 100s of people who came to honor this man. I listened to his family, friends, co-workers and his amazing wife give a testament of his life and the type of person he was.  I embraced my children tightly as we left the church that day and thanked God for providing me with more than I will ever truly need.  It was humbling to listen to the life of this man - a man with honor and grace - and I reevaluated how I was going to live my life.

 

On this morning, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas!!  I pray that at some point today, amongst the chaos of the presents, cooking, putting together of new toys, laughter, family and friends; you are able to step away from it all - step into a moment of silence - and reflect upon the true meaning of Christmas! It's so easy (guilty as charged, I am as well) to get caught up on the hustle and bustle of the holidays and lose focus of WHO we are celebrating today. 

 

 

Bruno departed last night on the North Pole Express - suitcases packed he headed home.  Good-bye little buddy, we look forward to seeing you next year!