Christmas Wishes

Look, the trees are turning their own bodies into pillars of light, are giving off the rich fragrance of cinnamon and fulfillment.  
~ Mary Oliver

This time of year, of all the holiday seasons, is probably the most special to me.

The lights sparkling on the trees and in the streets;
The extra time with family and friends from both near and far who are dear even though I may not get to see them very often;
The tantalizing scents of cookies and oranges and cinnamon in the air;
Voices raised in carols in the stillness of the evening;
The space to pause and think about "resolutions" or fun and interesting challenges you might like to tackle in the new year;
The chance, like opening up a new notebook or journal, to open up the cover on the blank pages of a new year crackling with all their possibilities and to daydream about the sparkling gems of hidden days and joyful discoveries that might lie ahead.

As we end the year, I want to wish all of you good health and happiness and a hope that in the new year you will experience the beauty and comfort of God in fresh and special ways. Blessings to you all.

Hark the glad sound! the Savior comes. the Savior promised long...