More Christmas Blessings

It's always so interesting to me to hear the commercials on TV talk about getting yourself something for Christmas. It sort of seems like that contradicts the whole meaning of Christmas. Heavenly Father gave His son to us for Christmas. Mary and Joseph gave us their child for Christmas. Jesus gave His life for us. Christmas should be all about giving and serving others. On Christmas Eve and again on Christmas night, the 200 missionaries in the Salt Lake Valley did just that. They spent those two evenings in nursing homes and other community centers sharing their time, talents and love with those people who needed it most. It was a true Christ-like gift. After their service on Christmas Day, they gathered at the mission office for some donuts and cider. What selfless young people we have in our midst.

Another blessing on Christmas Day was having a variety of Elders and Sisters drop by the mission home throughout the day. Some stopped to use the phone to call home, because their cell phones won't let them call international. (Brilliant idea on the part of the church missionary department, by the way! I don't know who thought of that, but the finance department loves them, I'm sure!) Others dropped off gifts. Sister Anderson and Sister Drew were scheduled to eat Christmas dinner with us, but I got lazy and didn't cook one, which really stinks for them! It's okay. My girls taught them a great game with dice instead. Bruce and I should be released from our calling heading back to Delaware shortly after I publish this blog.... It was delightful to talk to each of these fine young missionaries for a few minutes on Christmas Day. What a great example of service they are to all of us!

Elder Dominguez taking a long winter's nap.

Elder Beck takes on the Winns in an intense game of Monopoly.

Can they do this on a mission??