Christmas

Christmas this year was different, yet wonderful.  Since my parents are living in China, and David couldn't get enough time off of work for us to go to Texas, we had our first Christmas here just the two of us.  We missed our family, but it was quite lovely.  

We spent Christmas eve outside at the park, eating Mexican food, and relaxing.  

Christmas morning we exchanged our gifts and had a big breakfast.  We video-chatted with my parents in China while we opened their gift (love technology), and talked to the rest of our family.

I'm embarrassed to say that I didn't really get any pictures on Christmas day, very unlike me.  But it was simple & sweet.  David treated me like a queen and washed dishes ALL day for me *swoon*
Later in the evening we had friends come over for dinner and fun was had all around.

This is my last Christmas break ever for school (yikes), so i'm going to try and soak it up.

A thrill of hope

Lately David & I have been reading some Advent material.  We were reflecting on just how much we need rescue, and how amazing that makes Jesus' coming.  We are so in need in lots of ways, and His birth reminds us of the unexplainable grace that comes with Him.  

No matter how "good" your life is right now, we are all depraved.

But especially for those feeling the weary world right now... those dealing with loss, those dealing with hurt, those wanting children that haven't come, those financially burdened, those who struggle with guilt, those who are sick... Jesus being born (and His death) saves us and conquers all of it.  He is the only hope that can't be taken away.  And that's the reason to rejoice.