In the spirit of Advent Conspiracy and the focus on Christmas this year we are instituting a new tradition.

A blessing tree- A small living tree that will be filled throughout the season with all the great blessings we have been given, recorded by our family & friends.

This season has been particularly trying on our family as we are in the middle of a move and a job change with two babies crawling circles around us. Finances are tight and a new chaotic situation seems to be ensuing each day. Yet, we still so desperately want to experience the peace and joy that symbolize this great season. Already though, it has begun to get lost amidst the struggle- I trust in at least some way you can relate.

What better to do than focus on the many, many blessings in our lives?!?

Whenever we feel particularly blessed we will write it down on a paper ornament and then hang it on our tree.

We will also be encouraging our guests throughout the season to write down a blessing they have received this year. Near the tree sits a stack of ornaments just waiting to record the blessings of our friends and family.

Beyond the blessing ornaments we are keeping the decoration of the tree very simple only red lights and a few special symbols of the Christmas season.

I have great hope that our hearts will be inspired through this tree.

With initials printed on the back of each paper we will be able to save the blessings to look back on years from now…

when the chaos has died down and we will understand even greater how truly we were blessed this Christmas.

What are you blessed by this season?

MERRY CHRISTMAS