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Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.






The big question is, will there be snow in England for Christmas??

I am beginning to suspect that it will be a green Christmas. 
The kids believe that tonight will be the first snow fall. Right now it is raining...will snow follow?

I have grown accustom to Christmas being particular things; each part being a different shape, colour size etc, and when put together becomes a beautiful picture. For instance, snow (although there has been a couple instances in my life where snow was not delivered in time for Christmas morning, and it didn't feel like Christmas) a real Christmas tree, my family, Candle light service on Christmas eve etc. They all come together and form what is Christmas for me.

This year however, the picture is going to look much different. My emotions are starting to betray the courage and control I have been trying to wear. As the day approaches, every where I look, and everything I hear is in celebration and preparation of Christmas, of the birth of Jesus, our Saviour. I must admit I am starting to feel sad, this is my first Christmas away from my family.
But even though I am not going to be able to be with the ones my heart loves, and doing the traditional things I hold dear (especially the rare moments with family and close friends from far away) my heart remembers that Christmas is the celebration of the gift of Jesus. 

But rather then think about what I am missing, I am trying to focus my heart on what I will be experiencing, and gaining by seeing things done in another country. I am told London is beautiful at Christmas. And so far, what I have seen is amazing! I am so excited to see more.

Regent Street 
                                     
      Piccadilly circus
 (I think! we saw so much that day!)


Because when it comes down to it, whether I am here or home, or at the very edge of the earth, the joy, the gift, and the life of the baby born in a manger all those years back, is what it is all about it. He will sustain me.
It will be the joy and hope that I cling to. He is the reason we celebrate, that we remember, and that we finally take a moment to slow down and recognize the love of God.

It will be a privileged and joy to be able to celebrate with the people here. 

Will we have snow? Who knows. But Christmas will still come, and my heart will still be filled.

*Side note. We went to London last night to do some last minute shopping at Westfield mall. Wow. Now that is a mall. And the Lights and ice rink were so lovely! I do love this time of year!
And we may get to some of the Christmas markets in one of the local towns. Stay tuned!


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