Economists say that it’s going to be a “bad” Christmas. Sales are down, fueled by anxiety about everything from the mortgage debacle to oil prices. I like a strong economy as much as the next guy, and the market was bad to us this year. But will Christmas really be a disaster? Maybe we should measure a successful holiday season by diminishing divorce, suicide, and child abuse rates. Maybe then we wouldn’t need to band-aid our loneliness with more debt. Christmas cookies, footie pajamas, hot cocoa, a fire, carols playing in the background… nobody fighting…that’s what I’m talkin’ about.

Last night was our church’s annual Christmas play. The old story was told again by our little ones: Mary and Joseph, God’s Son sent to us in a manger, and angels singing for the redemption of mankind. We need Jesus, they reminded us. Ain’t that the truth.

Afterward, Greg and I tucked our brood into bed, and we wrapped a couple of gifts. The temperatures finally dropped from the 80’s to the 60’s and we were able to turn off the air conditioning. None of the lights have gone out on the Christmas tree, and when they do, it’ll be the ones in the back. One can hope. Funny how your priorities change over time.

IMG 0162My four oldest. They used a baby doll for Jesus instead of our newborn. She cries too much for the “no crying he made” kind of Jesus. Plus, my preschooler noted, “She’s a GIRL and Jesus is a BOY!”

IMG 0165 1Two wiseman and a chief priest.

IMG 0166Make that two wise guys and the court jester.

IMG 0167“This present is for me, and I’m going to LOVE it.” I hope so.

IMG 0198Speaking of Christmas cookies…

IMG 0185…who let the toddler down?! Guess who the dog loves best.