So This is Christmas

I have always loved the Christmas season. From an early age, my parents taught my sister and me the true meaning of season--it always revolved around our Lord and Savior's birth. I remember how I sat in the living room and unpacked the nativity with my sister. We would sometimes argue about who got to unwrap baby Jesus and place him in the manager. I loved decorating the house with my mom. As I got older, I often took on the task by myself because I was so excited to have everything out. I also enjoyed helping my mom bake, but I'm sure I bothered her more than anything as I would often eat the biscotti before it was finished and make a mess with powdered sugar as we made Russian tea cakes. In the evening, I loved lying by the fireplace with the lights off, staring up at the ceiling, and watching the shadows of the Christmas lights. Christmas Eve services were one of my favorites and still are. There is something about being with family and friends during this time of year, but you carry it all in your heart when you cannot be with them.

This Christmas season seems different than others. It is not the first time I have been away from my family for the holidays, nor will it probably be the last. But that’s not it. Maybe it’s the joy that is lacking or the non-existent “Feliz Navidad” wishes. As I read over the Christmas story these past few weeks, I was reminded of some of the beautiful promises we have because God chose to send His one and only son to this earth. Because of this gift from above, we have a consoler. We can receive grace and mercy. We are given hope. We have the gift of peace because He is the Prince of Peace. And above all else, we have love in its purest form.

Although this Christmas may be different for me than others, these things bring me comfort. My prayer for you all this Christmas season is that you will feel His peace and love because He is with us no matter where you find yourself. I know I have said this numerous times, but I cannot say it enough: thank you. Thank you all for your love, prayers, and support. This year has been filled with highs and lows. Laughter and tears. Stretching and growing. Thank you all for being a part of this journey with me! Merry Merry Christmas🎄

We are ending this year with 23 girls who have walked

through our doors since March. Five beautiful souls are

currently in our care, and more are expected to come in the

new year.