Christmas 2009

This is our first Christmas in Houston and it's different. Every year I usually pull out the Christmas decorations at Thanksgiving. I spend hours and days make sure the tree and hosue look perfect. I look forward to it every year. But this year, we are still in temporary housing and all the decorations are tightly packed. So I thought I would have a hard time getting into the Holiday Spirit. Not so, thankfully.

A few nights ago my husband surprised me by pulling out our little silver table topper tree. Here it is in all its glory surrounded by presents.

I know some of you may be thinking, What's the big deal? And you know what? You're right - that's what I learned in Christmas 2009. The decorations are fun and festive, but they do not make the season, they are not the reason we celebrate.

We celebrate because our Savior came from Heaven to earth to save us. It's not about stressing over getting the house ready and buying a lot of presents. It's about Him, His love for us, and sharing that love.

Don't get me wrong - traditions of putting up the tree, going to parties, exchanging gifts, and celebrating with the ones we love are awesome. I just learned that it's all about balance and putting Jesus first during this season (really all year round).

The Echols pray you have a very Merry Christmas with your family!

I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. Luke 2:10b-11, NIV

The Horror of Christmas Shopping

OK, the holiday shopping frustration has set in and I only have 3 gifts bought. I know, I sound ridiculous, but my recent experience has just put me in this mood. Let me elaborate…I decided to bring up the spirits in my office (they are so down ya’ll, it’s not even funny, pray for me) and decorate for Christmas. But company policy says we can only use battery operated Christmas tree lights. OK, no biggie, WRONG. I went to a few stores, hoping for a deal and they did not carry them. I thought that was fine, just looking for a deal, so I headed to Wally World. I mean Wally has everything, right? WRONG AGAIN. They have the miniature trees with all the trimmings and wreaths, but none of the battery operated lights that go with them. So I had to head up the street to the pricey Hobby store and get them.

I know, it sounds silly, but when you are shopping on your lunch hour in 3 inch heels, it’s quite frustrating.

OK, it’s off my chest and I feel better now, thanks for listening (reading). Let me know of your holiday shopping frustrations. Whine to me instead of everyone else, I’m sure they will all appreciate it. Happy shopping.

Progressive Dinner Christmas Party

I am so excited! My Church's Worship Choir is having a Progressive Dinner for our Christmas Party. I am a host home and need some help with decorating. Please submit any ideas (ex. tablelscape). I will be setting a table for 10! I know there are some very creative people out there and any of your ideas would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.