Christmas at home 2005

Finally arrived home after a good trip to Louisiana. Eliana recovered well from her sickness and ate to make up for the little she'd eaten the whole weekend. We checked out from the hotel after practically dragging Eliana out of bed. We got to Thomas & Nicole's house where she played a little with her baby cousin and his toys. When we started to leave, baby Thomas lifted his arms to come with us and waved bye to his mom.
It was a good trip back - no problems along the way. We dropped off Myrl and headed home to spend some time together. After unloading the car, we arranged the presents around our coffee table to allow for easier filming. Eliana's special gift was still under wraps and she didn't seem to notice.
We unwrapped gifts - Eliana was thrilled with everything. She would have stopped after each one if we hadn't encouraged her to continue. Her great uncle David, aunt Joyce, cousin Kev sent two books - one an incredibly intricate popup book (adult supervision required, I'm afraid). Her great grandmother sent a toy baking set (she described each piece after opening). She got some clothes, more books, a necklace kit, an electronic cash register with scanner, and her big gift - a new kitchen set!
Once that was unveiled, there was no stopping her. She pointed out the components (phone, stove, fridge, sink, microphone (wave). She eventually discovered the loaded dishwasher and was in heaven. She first hung up the mugs on little pegs. Then she unloaded all of the dishes, putting most in the fridge for some reason. We broke out the other toy cookware and she went to town making pancakes (cakecakes), eggs, cookies, drinks, etc. She had to stop regularly to ring something up on her cash register and swipe a credit card or two. Then she'd go right back to it. Once we wash the tea set she'll be even happier.
After some time, we interrupted her briefly to do some dress up with her Mimi's present. She made a cute bride, but didn't enjoy the others quite as much yet. I think the boa worried her a little. After some posing, she changed back to her normal clothes and resumed cooking and shopping.
It's good to be home again. God really helped remind me this year that it's about so much more than presents. There seemed to be a theme running everywhere I looked saying stop, slow down, don't get caught up in the business, be still and know that I AM God. Our choir musical, verses in quiet time, messages preached, radio - everything just saying that it's about God. If you're reading this, take some time out to really reflect on what you did with your Christmas this year. Was it of eternal value? Will it fade away? Turn off the radio/cd/mp3/tv/game and stop for a moment to thank God for what He's done for you in your life. Be still - know that He is God.

Blessings and peace.