What Christmas Means To Me

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27

"Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment." 1 Timothy 6:17

"But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you, he is Christ the Lord.'" Luke 2:10-11

Images "borrowed" from here

Vintage Thingies Thursday - Grandma's Piano

I'm participating in another of Coloradolady's Vintage Thingies Thursday's.

This time my Vintage Thingie is my grandparent's piano. Grandma passed away last summer, so the piano has extra value to me. She gave me lessons when I was in middle school on this piano. The lessons didn't last very long...probably had something to do with my impatience for practicing!! "You mean I can't play a Mozart Symphony on my first day?! No thanks!" I never was the most patient child...or adult for that matter! HA! :)

Since acquiring the piano, I have started a book to learn how to play. It's funny because I thought I had long since forgotten the lessons Grandma taught me, but when I sit down and perch my fingers over the keys, I can hear her voice in my ear as if she's still standing behind me, giving loving instructions. I'm so blessed to have her piano in my home, and I'm so blessed to have had her for a Grandma!!

Christmas Card Preview

Ok, this is not our Christmas card picture...it was kind of tempting, however! :) We took a silly one when we were done snapping the "real" shots.

"My" Daughter

Jason says to me, "Do you see what your daughter is doing?!"

Looks to me like she's just lovin' on her bunny! :)

Vintage Thingies Thursday - Made With Love By Aunt Pam

This is my first time participating in Coloradolady's Vintage Thingies Thursday. My Mom takes part in it every week and so today I'm taking a page from her book.

The reason I decided to participate this week is because I recently "inherited" some very special vintage thingies. My Aunt Pam and Uncle Joe will soon be retiring to paradise! To get ready for their new life in a new (smaller) home, they have been passing along items they can't take with them. Today I am sharing with you some Christmas treasures that my Aunt Pam made many moons ago. I can't remember the exact year...but I know it was 1980 at least...maybe in the late 70's.

As you can see, there are 4 stockings and a tree skirt. My camera doesn't do them justice. They're beautiful and believe it or not they look like they were made yesterday!!!

These family heirlooms are so special to me because my Aunt Pam is so special to me. I've always felt a special bond with her...my Mom even calls me "Pam" and Aunt Pam "Keri" ALL THE TIME. I have lots of memories and moments with her that I will always treasure. Like being up late at night, watching an old movie, eating cold fried chicken and having girl talk while everyone else was in bed. I am the oldest of all the cousins and Aunt Pam always made me feel special, letting me stay up to help her cook or read a book while the other kids went down for naps. I know I can talk to her about anything. I hope I don't embarrass you, Aunt Pam...I love you so much and thank you for allowing me to have your Christmas treasures!