joyful, joyful we adore thee

Joyful, Joyful we adore Thee!

"The Lord has done great things for us and we are filled with Joy." - Psalm 126:3

We have been more intentional this year about preparing our hearts and minds for Christmas. The kids have been excited to read our Advent calendar each day and read the coordinating scriptures. And eat the chocolate of course:). Our Sunday school class has also been studying Max Lucado's "Because of Bethlehem." We have truly enjoyed this study. 

I hope and pray that you have a wonderful Christmas filled with God's presence and love. 

"God took on your face in the hope that you would see His" - Max Lucado

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

up-close Christmas

One thing I think we all love about Christmas is traditions. I enjoy putting our Christmas decor out each year, especially the ornaments that we have collected over the years.  My Christmas decor does not change all that much from year to year, but I like adding a few new touches each year. I do not have a complete house tour to share, but here are a few   

up-close shots of Christmas around our house. 

Twinkle stepped us his game this year!

colonial christmas home

Our halls are decked and now the race begins to get everything accomplished before Dec. 24. One of my favorite things to do this time of year, when I need a break from all the craziness, is to drive around and look at everyone's Christmas decorations. I look forward to all of the Christmas home decor magazines too. This colonial home in Charleston, SC,  featured in Southern Living, is a show stopper. I'm sure it is even prettier in person.