I woke up early this morning excited about Christmas. And by "early" I mean "before the kids woke me up" which is to say about 7:15 am. I think this is the first time I've awakened early since that Christmas morning 5 years ago when Peter was born. I woke up early that morning too, and also woke Jon up, excited about the day.

Most of the American social pressures are taken care of -- the presents are wrapped, the stockings are hung, the food is bought and ready to prepare. All that's left to do is a little more cleaning and to enjoy the day(s). (We celebrate with my in-laws and nieces on that side on Christmas eve, so today is like Christmas in that sense).

On the other front, I'm excited about welcoming Jesus into our lives again. I'm a Godly Play teacher this year at church, and the way the schedule has worked out I taught 3 of the 4 Sundays of Advent. I really like the stories, and especially the Advent lessons. I've been able to get even the most hyper-active kids in my class to sit still, breathe, and reflect on when God became human in order to better connect with his people where we are.

In the last 5 years since Peter was born, I know I've drifted somewhat. So much of life became just putting one foot in front of the other. But now I'm ready. Ready to reconnect with God. Here I am. Send me.

Merry Christmas!

--Beth

Alex earned his green ribbon in swimming yesterday. :-) :-)