Today's Bliss: A New Year

The last few days of 2012 are quickly coming and going and I realized today that I am glad. I know that I should never wish for time to pass, that I should be grateful for and savor every moment of the days that I am given, but 2012 has just been a little rough, and I am glad to turn to a new year ahead. December has specifically been a roller coaster ride, and as much as I love theme park thrill rides, I am very ready to get off of this one. There have been some highlights (see below), however, and I will work to focus on these during the last hours of the year.

Deep down, I am constantly reminding myself that my life is blissful even when I face some challenges and unexpected hurdles. I am very blessed, even with challenges, because every single thing that happens is in God's hands, even though I rarely understand the "why" of it. It's just hard to lift your head out of the murky waters when you feel immersed by them. I hope that in 2013 I am better able to breathe in more light and life and exhale negativity and fear. And I hope the same for you, too.

So, to tie up 2012 on a good note rather than dull one, here are a few blissful things that I will hold on to from this year:

• Just being married to sweet, caring, funny N and enjoying his company every day.
• Seeing the Grand Canyon for the first time and realizing how vast God is.
• Having cuddle time with my spoiled dog Scooter every day (as much of a mess as he is).
• Spending time at a lovely lake house thanks to N's Grandmother.
• Supporting friends when they have needed me to lend a helping hand and listening ear.
• Having healthy, happy family members.
• Seeing my one-and-only Neice graduate from high school and begin her fun college adventure.
• Standing by while a good friend said "I do."
• Worshiped and fellowshiped with supportive, caring friends at church.

My true loves

All the best bliss to you as you tie up 2012 and plunge headlong into 2013 in a few days!

Today's Bliss: Advent

I love the holidays. It is a time for rest, reflection, family, and celebration. I especially enjoy the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas, when we are preparing for a festive, joyous time ahead. I like to buy people gifts and wrap them up, decorate our home, bake some yummy cookies, and feel warm and cozy readying my Christmas card list.

The most important thing during this time of the year is advent. The word "advent" brings to mind more spiritual preparation, a deeper time to celebrate Jesus, God's perfect gift to us. Where would we be without God? Where would we be without the sacrifice He made? Jesus is our only hope in this very crazy world we are living in.

Many people hustle and bustle rather than stop and pray during this season. Many people don't like this season at all, seeing it as sad rather than joyous. Many people equate Christmas with stress. And I have been guilty of all of this myself, of course, but I am trying harder and harder every year to keep my mind on the manger, my eyes on the cross, and my heart centered on Christ at Christmas. Feeling His presence every day is what keeps me going throughout the year, but especially now when we are getting set to remember His birth.

So, look around you, enjoy the bright lights, festive decor, and fun that the season brings. The fact that you can partake of this season and enjoy the blessings of Christ is pure bliss.

Christmas 2011 - Gaylord Opryland Hotel