First Christmas

The past few Christmas' Ryan and I have spent together and with both our families, but this will be the first together as our own little family. Being that this is a wonderful time of the year I am looking forward to focusing much on Christ. We had the opportunity to go to the Recife, Brazil Temple today. My great uncle and wife are serving there as temple president and matron. It was a beautiful experience being able to go there and have a surprise visit with them. They welcomed us with open arms and lots of love. We are very grateful for their christ-like actions towards us and for our experience of seeing them.

Though it is beautiful to be walking the beaches of Brazil where the water is the perfect aqua color and warm like the bahamas, I do miss some details that remind me that it is Christmas time.

Christmas tree

Stockings by the fire

Hot chocolate

Homemade cookies + glass of ice cold milk

I won't let those missing details let me down. There will be plenty years to have these things when we are not bouncing around the globe where it is odd to drink a glass of fresh milk with your cookie. (My only complaint about South America). I was very happy to see the beautiful nativity scene on the temple grounds this evening. It put a smile on my face.

P.S. My sisters have birthdays right next to each other. Yesterday(15th) was Ellie's and today(16th) is Hanna's. Wish I could have been home to sing happy birthday to you and watch you blow out your candles. I love you both.

Happy Birthday Ellie and Hanna!!