I LOVE CHRISTMAS...

but not so much the digging out of the tree. Our tree looks more and more sad every year. If I had all the money in the world, I would get something prelit. I enjoy putting up ornaments, but the branch fluffing and bending and light stringing leaves something to be desired. You know, if I had all the money in the world, I would probably also hire a decorator. And a maid.

When my husband was little, he asked his parents why people put stars and angels on top of the tree instead of baby Jesus (good question), so from then on a small baby Jesus topped their tree. When I was growing up, my sister had the angel to put on top of the tree. So when I grew up I couldn't wait to have my own tree, and my own angel. And yet, how do you trump a baby Jesus? Perhaps this year an angel with a baby Jesus directly underneath, so the angel can "announce" the baby. We'll see.

Anyway, this year I have been bitten by the FaLaLa bug, and I am so very excited to get into the Christmas season. I have downloaded MercyMe's Christmas cd from itunes, and I nearly had chills down my spine when I stumbled upon all of the Christmas decor at Target *gasp* WELL BEFORE Thanksgiving. I have nearly all the Christmas presents planned, and many purchased.

Since having kids of my own, the Nativity has become more and more of a miracle to me. I was proud to endure labor twice with no epidural, and yet Mary could bring the savior of all mankind into the world in a stable. I love Sara Groves song "Child of Love", imagining what it was like for Mary to hold her precious child who she knew would one day save the world. Mary must have been a truly, truly amazing woman, with incredible faith.

So Jesus is coming, and I can't wait. The spirit of the season is alive and well. Sparkles and music and cinnamon, and the best gift of all.