The Bishop's Wife--Christmas Sermon!!

Tonight I want to tell you the story of an empty stocking.

Once upon a midnight clear, there was a child's cry. A blazing star hung over a stable and wise men came with birthday gifts.

We haven't forgotten that night down the centuries; we celebrate it with stars on Christmas trees, the sound of bells and with gifts.

But especially with gifts.

You give me a book; I give you a tie. Aunt Martha has always wanted an orange squeezer, and Uncle Henry could do with a new pipe. We forget nobody, adult or child.

All the stockings are filled -- all that is, except one. And we have even forgotten to hang it up.

The stocking for the child born in a manger. It's His birthday we are celebrating. Don't ever let us forget that.

Let us ask ourselves what He would wish for most, and then let each put in his share.

Loving kindness, warm hearts and the stretched out hand of tolerance.

All the shining gifts that make peace on earth.

Getting Into Shape

I started exercising again, mainly cardio but some lifting, and it feels great. Now, anyone who knows me also knows that this is a common theme with me--exercise for a couple of weeks feel really great, then stop completely and wonder why I'm not feeling so great anymore--LOL!! Part of me is back on the program because it's Christmas time, which means cookies, cake, and more treats really high in carbs. I just hope I can remember how I feel right now, and continue what it takes to make that happen.

I know weight isn't all that important & it really isn't about that, it's about mental clarity, and having a higher energy level. The higher energy level is my favorite part!!

Speaking of treats though, next week I'll be making a ton of Cake Balls & that excites me, 'Cos they're just sooo good. ;)

I hope everyone gets to eat tons of yummy treats in the next few weeks!!

Preparing for Christmas!

I was looking online for Catholic prayers for the Christmas season & I didn't really find any I liked much. If anyone has any favorites they'd be willing to share I would be truly grateful.

I was having trouble this year getting into the spirit as far as gift buying went, but I think I snapped out of that. I'm almost done shopping, and I'm really excited about it too!!

I don't really have much else to prepare for, so it's not too stressful, especially since I won't be cooking or playing hostess. I do have a few Christmas goodies to make, but that's easy & fun.

Hope you all are having a wonderful time preparing for the celebration of Christ's birth.

Blessings!!