Around 5:00, the day begins to die outside, and things
start to come alive inside The White House.
I light candles around the house and turn on the Christmas music-- loud.
The school computers, backpacks, and work get put away,
and I start dinner with anyone willing to help me.
Last year for Christmas, the Nies gave me a German Nativity pyramid,
it's just about the cutest thing ever, and I've always wanted one.
Each night at the dinner table, I light its 6 candles, and we've made a
rule that no one can leave the table until all the candles have
burned out. (They're skinny, and they burn pretty fast).
This helps us slow down and enjoy the Hygge-ness of the season
and each other.
We also read The Book of Mormon (which we are finishing TODAY!!!!!).
This year, The Nies gifted me a wooden advent music box
that I opened early on December 1st so we could start using it.
It's the most beautiful thing ever!
And with it, of course, I started another family tradition.
Each Nie picked another family member's name from a hat and wrote
them a little love letter.
Then I tucked them inside the little wooden advent drawers.
After we've finished dinner and we're enjoying conversation,
I open the corresponding drawer day and pull out a letter.
It's incredible how much this simple little act
of love can fill hearts with joy and light.
As a mother, seeing my children recognize and love their siblings is
one of the greatest gifts I could ever receive.
And all I want for Christmas is to make traditions of light and love in my home
and point everything back to the light of the world; the Savior, Jesus Christ.
* * * * *
Have a wonderful weekend, and light a candle!
St. Lucia Day is on Sunday, and we have a big feast planned!
(Claire as St. Lucia 2019)
* * * * *
"Christ is the light; the gospel is the light;
the plan of salvation is the light;
'that which is of God is light; and he that receiveth light,
and continueth in God,
receiveth more light, and that light groweth brighter
and brighter until the perfect day.'
As the light of the sun enters the body through our natural eyes,
so the light of heaven—the light of the Spirit which illuminates
our souls—enters through our spiritual eyes."
* * * * *
Please, PLEASE watch this beautiful video by the angelic
Norwegian beauty, Sissel, sing "Slow Down" with the
Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square.
I promise you'll love it!
