The Joy of Giving

    When Christmas Eve comes around, we travel to my parent's church where there's a beautiful service each year. 
     During that time, kids are welcome to join in the Nativity scene which never fails to disappoint...and always pulls at your heart. 
     This year was no exception.
    We watched as the little smiles and robes shone from under that special star and remembered years past with fondness, while marveling at how quickly time seems to be passing.
    It was only a minute ago when our youngest tried to pick up and hold the 'baby' during the service while I sat mortified without being able to stop her.  She pulled straws of hay from the manger, one by one while handing them to Shepherds,  Wise Men, Mary and Joseph as I sank deeper into my seat.

     As a parent, even though you wish you could stop it, you also know it would be too distracting to be worth the try. 
    This year was different though.  The kids were older, they all took their places and now it was adorable to see the younger ones join in the group.

      No one tried to pull baby Jesus from the manger and everyone played their parts well.
    It made me realize, not only should I have not been embarrassed when our little one so happily took part in years past, I should've cherished it. 
     She took joy in getting to be an angel, joy in getting to love the little baby...and yes...even joy in handing out straws of hay.
       There's something to be said about that, especially during this time of year.  It isn't about what we get this Christmas, but instead what we receive when we give our hearts and genuine love...especially to that little Baby in a manger.
     Merry Christmas to You and Yours!  May your New Year be filled with loads of hay, Joy and Love. XO