Happy St. Lucia Day

This Swedish tradition has always been part of the Christmas Season for me. My mom recounted her memories of this holiday and I'm proud to say, the tradition lives on in our family. Thank goodness for battery-powered candles!



I want to keep this tradition alive, because I think St. Lucia is a wonderful example for my young daughters. She was a courageous young woman who stood up for her beliefs. She was gracious and loving. She served others willingly and modestly. She spread the Light of Christ. I hope by retelling Lucia's story each year, my girlies learn the true meaning of charity.

I know for me, this tradition has helped keep me linked to daughters that have gone before me: my sisters, my mom, my Grandma June, my Great-Grandmothers Agnes and Mary. . .

Fleeting Moments

While I was sweeping the floor, Ashley asked me, "Mommy, will you play this Go Fish game with me?" With a heart full of guilt and a mind full of my to-do list, I told sweet Ashley that I had to finish up some chores, so I couldn't play.



A minute later she shows me the other deck of "Go Fish" cards and asked, "How about playing this Go Fish game with me?"



She beat me 2-1.



A clean house never lasts more than an hour, but Ashley's smile will last in my mind forever.

Makin' a List, Checkin' it Twice

Christmas trees decorated. . .check.
Presents bought. . .check.
Presents wrapped. . .check.
Christmas cards sent. . .check.
Stockings hung. . .check.


Family scrapbook page designed. . .check.
Scrapbook page sent to loved ones. . .check.
Holiday music playlist created. . .check.
Music fills the air. . .check.


Holiday treats continuously devoured. . .check, check, and check.
Sanity level checked. . .check.
Nutcracker rehearsals finished. . .check.


Parties on calendar. . .check.
Christmas dinner menu finalized. . .check.
Advent calendar counting down. . .check.
Holiday stories being read. . .check, check, check, check. . .


Days left until Christmas. . .15!

Sit back and enjoy the holidays. . .check.