Last night we put up the tree. Noah couldn't see why we were bothering to do so because we are going to be gone for Christmas. We told him we wanted to feel all the Christmas spirit. We focus more on the savior, but a tree seems to bring out a spiritual side as well. It gives me time to reflect on the past, present and future. 

 I plug in the tree lights, turn off all the other lights, sit quietly and marvel at how peaceful and calm everything feels. I bask in the glow of the soft Christmas light. I reflect on the angels who  proclaimed Christ's birth that starry night and how humble the circumstances were. Even in a manger there was peace, joy, and love that 'surpasseth' all. 'The tree' for me represents arms reaching upward longing for that Heavenly Home. I feel God's love all around me. 

I look forward to Christmas eve where we celebrate Christ's birth. I love that our Christmas eve is focused on Christ, stories that are about those who found the true Christmas spirit, Christ's birthday, and the nativity story as written by Luke the physician.  I am thankful for my children who are carrying on our gift to Christ tradition. 

We may not be here on Christmas eve, but we will continue the traditions in our home December  20th before we leave for California. I am confident that we will have a spiritual feast as we gather once again to share this special night.