Before we leap into a new year, I want to pause to reflect on the season directly behind us. Christmas ’11 was awesome! I have so many things to be thankful for. I decided to list them all, so that I would never forget.
1). One of my favorite things about this Christmas season was directing the play at my new church, The Light Community Fellowship. The pastor and his wife (Ron and Ava Bates) have welcomed us with open arms. So have the members of the congregation. They’re easy to love! I had the time of my life directing “The Good News,” a play I co-authored and co-directed with my daughter, Randi Morrow. What a blessing!
2). Shopping with my mom. My mother loves to shop, but never so much as during the Christmas season. I got tickled a lot watching her pick out gifts for the kids, grandkids and great-grandkids.
3). Speaking of kids and grandkids…have I mentioned that I adore mine? I’m especially grateful for the extra time with the granddaughters this season: baking, going to the movies, eating Chinese food and opening presents.
4). Time off from writing. Okay, everyone knows I love to write, but I also enjoy taking a Sabbath rest every now and again. This Christmas season provided just the right time away from my work to rest and relax.
5). An awesome church service on Christmas morning! Three of my family members (Randi, Megan and Kevin) sang beautiful Christmas songs. I’m one proud mama!
6). Baked goods. After nearly a year of staying away from sugar, I indulged in a few (well deserved) sweets this Christmas season. My mom is a great candy-maker and cookie-baker. I also baked a few cookies and cakes, myself. I didn’t go overboard (still dieting) but managed to hold my own while nibbling. Now it’s time to put the sweets behind me and get back to the business of regular living/eating.
7). Awesome friends. I had so many lovely lunches, brunches, etc. this holiday season. God has blessed me with amazing, godly friends who love to celebrate the season!
8). The return of my Michigan-daughter, Courtney Elizabeth (and her sweet hubby, Andy). They’re back in Texas! This was our first Christmas together in years and I’m so blessed they’re home again!
9). New readers. Thanks to the kindle and kindle fire, my freebie novel (Fools Rush In) is back on the religious fiction bestseller list. I couldn’t be more grateful. This gives me a new opportunity, to reach out to more/new readers than ever. Thank you again and again to those who’ve helped spread the word.
10). Last (but definitely not least): a resurgence in my spiritual life/faith. This has been an awesome season of seeking God for 2012. His specific word to me for this coming year: JOY! Yep, joy. Not the kind you drum up, but a deep, abiding, God-breathed joy that energizes and brings life.
So, there you have if, friends! I’m tickled pink to transition from 2011 to 2012, but needed to pause to say thanks for such a blessed Christmas season!
