Christmas Decor

I know it's a big controversy on when people should be "allowed" to put up Christmas decorations. But my personal rule is as long as Thanksgiving has passed I'm in the clear. Since Monday is my day off I decided that today would be a good Christmas decoration day.
One of the main focuses of my Christmas decor is my Willow Tree Nativity. This is such a beautiful piece and I like it to be the main focus. I realized, though, that if I put it on my counter where I had put it the year before the stupid cat would knock it over and break it. Oh what to do? AHA!! The top of the entertainment center. Michael was so excited to have it up there...so excited that he added his own little friends.

For those who need this most

Without giving away a million details I'm just going to say that right now is a scary time. It's a time when I reflect back on the importance of life and look forward with the faith I have. For some this blog may mean nothing but I know of a few who will really appreciate these words.
Yesterday during the passing of the sacrament I was in deep thought and intense prayer. *side note: every time I sing in the choir during sacrament meeting I sit next to the same lady and I always seem to cry...she probably thinks I'm a sorry sap.* Anyway, while I was in deep thought a hymn popped into my head and I haven't been able to get it out since. Granted, I only "married into" the importance of this hymn but it is still very dear and close to my heart.

Let us all press on in the work of the Lord,
That when life is o'er we may gain a reward;
In the fight for right let us wield a sword,
The mighty sword of truth.

Chorus:
Fear not, though the enemy deride;
Courage, for the lord is on our side.
We will heed not what the wicked may say,
But the Lord a lone we will obey.

We will not retreat, though our numbers may be few
When compared with the opposite host in view;
But an unseen power sill aid me and you
In the glorious cause of truth.

Chorus

If we do what's right we have no need to fear,
For the Lord, our helper, will ever be near;
In the days of trial his Saints he will cheer,
And prosper the cause of truth.

Chorus
To those who might need this most know that the Lord will comfort us and bless us. Even though times are tough and little scary we must have faith! I love you.

The Rainbow Connection

Today was one of those days you wish you could avoid but inevitably have to face. These days are always full of tears mixed with laughter and some fun memories.
Last week a friend of mine, Mike Nebeker, passed away. He was/is a such a good guy. Today, at his funeral, I was thinking really hard about Mike and great memories we had together. I couldn't help but smile from ear to ear. I love that I have the advantage of knowing that Mike is on the other side making many others smile ear to ear; I think it makes the passing easier.
The funeral service was definitely a celebration of life; Mike's life. His siblings shared memories of Mike that made me feel closer to him. It's always fun to hear about someone's childhood years. One thing I learned about Mike (it was made obvious that maybe I should have known) was his love of the Muppets. Honestly, though, who can't love the Muppets. Kermit is the cutest frog and the only frog I secretly wish to kiss. Because of Mike's love for the Muppets, it was only appropriate to have a musical number that was Muppet related. Frank Chang, a member of my ward, put together a piano piece of The Rainbow Connection. On the back of the program were the words and I was able to follow along with the piano. This song struck me deep inside and I wanted to share the words with you:

Why are there so many songs about rainbows and what's on the other side?
Rainbows are visions, but only illusions,
And rainbows have nothing to hide.
So we've been told and some choose to believe it;
I know they're wrong, wait and see
Someday we'll find it, The Rainbow Connection;
The Lovers, the dreamers, and me.

Who said that every wish would be heard and answered
When wished on the morning star?
Somebody thought of that, and someone believed it;
Look what it's done so far.
What's so amazing that keeps us stargazing
And what do we think we might see?
Someday we'll find it, The rainbow Connection;
The lovers, the dreamers, and me.
All of us under it's spell; We know that it's probably magic.

Have you been half asleep and have you heard voices?
I've heard them calling my name.
Is this the sweet sound that calls the young sailors?
The voice might be one and the same.
I've heard it too many times to ignore it.
It's something that I'm supposed to be.
Someday we'll find it, The Rainbow Connection;
The lovers, the dreamers, and me.

Thank you Mike for all your memories and AWESOME ribs. You will be missed here on Earth. God be with you til we meet again.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jSFLZ-MzIhM

Let me lighten your load.

Hey there bloggers! The kids are hyped up on candy, the costumes are put away, and your starting to think about Turkey Day. Don't let your hyper kids and plans for turkey eating let you forget that Christmas is on it's way. Let me know if I can lighten your load.