Or is it the baby Jesus glow?

Every day I've been prompting the boys to share what they know about the Real Story of Christmas.



As we suffocated decorated sugar cookies with sprinkles and icing, we talked.

He was born in a cabin, right?

Or was it like on a farm?

I explain about the "hotel" not having any room for them. And it boggles my mind. The Prince of Peace...? They couldn't even make room for a baby about to be born... that was the KING?

Even reality show tv stars would be treated better. Or surely someone else would give up their room for a laboring woman, for Him?

Instead He gave up His own for those who shut their doors. For us. For me.

[a visit with Santa- who's just a guy-

they know what Christmas is really about.]

I've had a home birth, and thinking about it I imagine it would be quite the birth experience to have animals all around as I labor.

They were probably being super nosy, wondering what is up.

But, I reckon it was beautiful. With the shining stars in the sky, shelter still provided- while not lavish or medically equipped- nature happened. A miracle happened. Many, many, many, many years ago.

[the usual.]

I nurse my baby on Christmas Eve, thinking of a newborn Jesus. And the sacrifice God made for people that would hate him, and a people that would try to love him, but would always be hurting Him and failing Him. And would I ever be able to fathom it? My baby?

I hold Ivy tighter and am thankful I don't have to make that choice. And as a Mother, I understand it completely.

Merry Christmas.

xoxo