Writings on the Eve of a New Year

Another year's end.
For two thousand, thirteen years now people have had this day to reflect on what the previous three hundred sixty four days have brought into their lives.
And I join them in that reflection along with thoughts, dreams, hopes and yes… resolutions for the upcoming year.

I looked back at what I wrote on this blog the beginning of this year. I wrote how I wanted to become more passionate for life, living and for what I believe. I did attain some of that passion, in some areas so much that it terrified me. But there is still so much out there yet to be had. And I know that I'll be looking for more in this coming year.
Tomorrow I'll be posting some new goals/resolutions that I have set for the new year.

Currently the clock is ticking down to the end of two thousand thirteen, and I'm reflecting on this year's events.
A few things that are standing out as my most favorite are:
My nephew Brendan being born.
(Eeeee!!! I love babies, especially when the baby is my lil' Nephew!)
Church camping trip.
(some favorite moments spent with some of my very favorite people!)
Running the half-marathon.
(I love running. Nuff said.)
Trip to the United States of America with the fam.
(reunited with old friends, meeting new friends.... and my first visit to the ocean!)

And that's it! The clock reads 12:00. A new year has dawned.
It is officially 2014!
And I'll leave the rest of what I want to say for later on this morning :)
Happy new year everyone!!!

Remember

Christmas day.
The day that we celebrate the greatest gift ever given to man.
Jesus Christ, God manifested in flesh.

The days leading up to this most celebrated occasion I find myself lost in the busyness of preparation. Preparation for gatherings, for family togetherness, for full bellies.
We get ready for and participate in family traditions, all this giving me a huge sense of thankfulness for my family, and the amazing memories that we are able to make together every year.

But my favourite Christmas moment of all is the one that usually begins at a late hour christmas eve.
We all cozy up together in the living room and watch the story of Jesus' birth unfold in the movie "The Nativity Story". Even though we all practically have the movie memorized due to watching it every year, it still moves me to tears every time. It brings me to a place of really realizing the sacrifice that was made for us not just by our Saviour, but also by Mary, Joseph and others that were involved in the event of Christ's birth.
The movie usually comes to an end the early morning of Christmas day.
After we all wish each other a "Merry Christmas" and settle in bed for a short sleep before another full day of family fun, I will often lay awake in the silence that sleep brings and really reflect on the reason for the season. The "why" of all of this celebration.

Christ born to die for my sins.
Born to die for ALL of our sins.

As sleep overtakes me, and morning dawns to begin Christmas day, I remember.
I remember the sacrifice, the love and the hope that Jesus brought to us that day long ago.

Huge flakes of snow are falling outside, and inside, we are a happy family.
Dancing to Christmas music, remembering Christmas past, making memories of Christmas present, and enjoying the many, many gifts that God has given us.

As you celebrate Christmas today, don't forget to remember.
Don't forget to be thankful for the most precious gift that was given to us in the form of a babe born long ago.
Jesus Christ, our Saviour.

Merry Christmas everyone!!

Matthew 1:21

And she shall bring forth a son, 

and thou shalt call his name JESUS:

 for He shall save His people from their sins.