Sunday, December 25, 2011

Christmas 2011

Christmas should really always be on a Sunday.  It just feels right.  We had such a great Christmas this year.  We have made close friends here that are just like family to us.  Being away from family during Christmas isn't so hard when you have friends like that. 

Every time we have moved we are blessed to have the church wherever we go.  I don't know if some of you have experienced this, but if you have then you know how hard it is to be in a totally knew place with no family around you.  It has always been a relief and a comfort to show up at church in an unfamiliar place and feel like you have an instant support system.  The organization of the church into wards in every corner of the world is a truly inspired concept.


Being far away from family is a blessing in disguise.  Jason and I have grown much stronger as a couple than if we had been by our families.  We have learned to rely solely on one another. 

I have made true and lasting friendships with so many different people. I really have never considered myself the outgoing type.  If I lived where I grew up I think I would have become content to do what was familiar and comfortable.  Maybe not true for others but for me, yes.  I have had to learn to reach out a bit and it's really made me a much different and better person.

My testimony has grown.  Growing up with Mormons all around was great, but I never really had to say to someone, yes this is what I believe and explain why.  I can say that I love sharing the gospel with others and being away affords me that opportunity more abundantly. 

Lastly, if I'm going to be far away from my family, at least I'm in an awesome place.  Just admit that you've all secretly or maybe openly dreamed of coming to Maine.  
 





Merry Christmas to you all and if you find that you are far away from family today then I hope you remember that it can be a blessing. 



2 comments:

Chablis said...

I love your hot pink dresses! But I have to disagree with you, Christmas on a Sunday was much too hectic for my style. I think a Christmas Eve Sunday would be perfect though. :)

Alice Jane said...

I don't know how I missed this post! What a cute family, Celeste! I feel the same about being away from family. It has made me a much more confident person and my relationship with Dave is so strong. Truly a blessing in disguise!