Peace

 The kids are in bed, finally quiet.

The turkey is in the oven, slowly roasting overnight.

The bread is chopped, seasoned, and setting out to dry on the counter for the dressing tommorow.

The presents are finally all wrapped and under the tree thanks to my sweet husband's help.

It's been a busy day, of a busy month, of a busy year.

I'm tired, and most likely tonight will be way too short, in spite of my dire warnings to the kids for the hapless soul who dares to wake me before I'm ready, presents be hanged!

I think back to last year this time.

We were impatiently waiting for a second court date, thinking and longing with all our hearts for two little boys in an orphanage in Ethiopia.

Thank you, Jesus, they are here now; and in the morning we will celebrate their first Christmas together.

Thank you that there are two more stockings to stuff, two more faces to watch with delight.

And thank you, most of all, for coming as a helpless baby, for putting yourself at man's mercy, for suffering so that we can live freely and with joy!

Joy to the world, the Lord has come!