Merry Christmas, A Point

For whatever reason, Christmas has always brought out the emotional side in me. It could be the lights, or the festivities, I'm not quite sure. It's a mystery, the way I sit staring up at the Christmas tree, the flickering lights, shimmering ornaments and am always tempted to cry. It could be because in my opinion, life can't be more perfect and so I cry because of thankfulness. Or because I feel so loved by my family and friends that it overwhelms me. Whether or not I'll ever figure out what exactly it is that stirs my emotions, I'm taking into account every joke, every smile, every hug because who's to say what will happen next? Life's full of radical changes and so I'll enjoy everything I have right now, before time comes and whisks it away. If it wasn't for Christmas, who knows? I probably wouldn't take the time to really think about how blessed I actually am. 
~Merry Christmas!  

Christmas Eve...A Definite Pearl

Christmas Eve itself is a momentous occasion. Children all over the world anticipate the arrival of morning's first light, whether it be to glow at the mound of surprises under the tree or to beam at the handful of chocolates in their stocking. Every single Christmas brings unforgettable memories that will last us the rest of our lives. Although every one of my Christmases has been extremely memorable, this one will stick out in my mind for eternity. On this cold Christmas Eve, my younger sister and I were finally baptized!...in the warmth of a hot tub! I'll never forget the flush of excitement leading up to this occasion, or the smile on my face as my Mom read my handwritten testimony aloud and together my parents dunked me under. I don't think I will ever lose the shocked expression that was on my face as I got out of the tub into the freezing December air. It was a day to remember! We had been waiting for quite some time to do this, but I can honestly say that I'm overjoyed we waited until Christmas Eve, which  made it somewhat magical. I will remember every Christmas, but this one especially....is a definite pearl.