A small tree with my children's ornaments. They each have one for each Christmas. There is also one Ayla made in school. There are some that they won as prizes in Sunday school for answering questions about the Nativity and Jesus. This tree reminds me of the little blessings in my life. My children are healthy and growing. Ayla is doing very well in school. They both love Sunday school and learning about their Savior. It fills my heart with joy!
I decorated in a country Christmas theme this year. Simple and understated. I used some ornaments and decorations from when I was a child. It reminded me of the years my mom struggled to make sure my sister and I have a wonderful Christmas. Somehow, she always managed to make it wonderful. I'm reminded of snow and Christmas Eve on my grandparents farm. My Grandfather would go outside and ring bells on the porch, leaving gifts outside the sliding glass doors of their living room. Then, as the kids ran for the door and brought the gifts inside, he would slip back in and stand at the living room entry to watch. I remember clam chowder, smoked salmon, and ham rolls. I remember Christmas dinners with the family gathered around, talking and laughing. I remember Grandpa going to the china cabinet to pull out his jar of salt water taffy so each of us kids could have a piece.
This Christmas, as for the last five, we have been in Georgia. We have celebrated with Bryan's family and our friends. We have been awed by the glory and grace of our Lord. I know my grandparents are celebrating together, in Heaven. Their grandkids have grown and had children of their own. While I cherish the memories of my childhood, I am busy making new memories with my children, who are growing up so fast.
I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas. I pray that the year to come brings Blessings to you all.
With Love, Jessica and the Hembree Family
