What I love about winter. . .

Warming my hands on a mug of hot chocolate

Listening to Christmas music

Hot showers on a cold morning

Wearing my warm fuzzy socks

Making cookies with my kids

Snowball fights with my oldest son even when there's only a 1/4 inch of snow on the ground

Wearing zip up hoodies and my knock-off Ugg boots

Christmas shopping to find the perfect gift

Singing Christmas Carols at a nursing home (love it when their faces light up and they sing along!)

Helping others when they least expect it

Snuggling under my favorite blanket (thanks Tammy!) and watching SYTYCD

What are your favorite things about this season?

Not too bad

While we were at Kansas at my brother's house we attempted to get family pictures of all of us. Here is the best one. Not great but at least we are all smiling. : )

A Heart of Gratitude

Click on the title to read a great excerpt from a blog by Erwin McManus.

Give Thanks

I'm am thankful for a God who loves me and my beautiful family.

Balance Beam by Francis Chan

I don't want to stay clinging to the balance beam. I want my Savior to say, "Well done, my faithful servant." When Jesus was on the earth he didn't do what was comfortable, he was always found in uncomfortable situations. He wanted His Father's name to be known to the world. I want my Father's name to be known wherever I am and that calls for many uncomfortable situations. I say "Bring it on!" God is not calling me to stay in my nice, safe bubble. God is calling my family and I to go share His love with a new group of people. I'm excited!

have your way Lord

Lord of Lords

This song has encouraged me recently. It's not a song with deep meaning, it's just a simple love song to our Lord. My favorite line is, "Let not the things of this world ever sway me, I'll run 'till I finish the race."