Recipe for perfection

 Today was just a great day! I always love Sundays but today was just so good. I listened to Christmas music this morning. Went for a lovely walk. Was able to enjoy my clean house and decorated house. I love having it decorated for Christmas.

In relief society they talked about traditions a little bit. Since I am single I don't have a lot of traditions but as I was thinking I thought my favorite thing about getting ready for Christmas is setting up my nativity. I love it. I reflect on each piece as I place it on the shelf and contemplate their sacred roles at that time in the world. I love that I have a simple Nativity (I wish it meant that it had been cheap). It has taken me four years of buying pieces to have the set I have now. It is not 100% complete but I am happy with it. They always add extra pieces but I love mine the way that it is and it has all the major parts.

 One other tradition is that I have read this book the last two years. I love love love this book. It is a great reminder of what the Christmas season is all about and helps me reflect on the Savior as well as the purpose for the season.

 Don't die of shock but I bore my testimony in church today. I almost get up every month but then I don't. It is ridiculous. I never say anything profound but my heart has been so full. One thing I have been contemplating the last few months was my setting apart as a temple worker. In the blessing the worker said that not only would I be blessed for my service but my family would be as well. I have seen this come to pass. I have the opportunity each week to pray, ponder, and place names on the temple prayer roll. I can testify that Heavenly Father has answered my prayers and is very aware of what is in my heart. I am so grateful for that. Every immediate family member and many of my friends have been in my thoughts and my prayers. I am so blessed to have such wonderful people in my life. I love them. I want them to be happy and blessed!

After church Sam, Amanda, and Nancy joined Dan, Caleb, Katie and I for dinner. After dinner we watched the Christmas devotional. I feel like it isn't really Christmas until the devotional each year. That really starts the season for me.

My tree all decked out.

This is the first year that I really wished my tree was more full. The only problem is that I don't have storage space for a much bigger tree. But I think next year I just may do it. It has been a good one but it may be time to move on. I have impressed myself with my self control, I didn't just run out and buy a new one. It has been very tempting. I love my new ornaments. I also put poinsettia flowers in the tree like my mom does and I love the red that it adds. It just makes me happy each morning and evening as I am coming and going.

All posts are better if I post a picture of a niece or nephew. This little stinker would not let me hold him tonight until Amanda put him to sleep.

 He then slept on my for quite awhile, so I forgave him. Such a cutie. I can't believe he is already six weeks old. Love him.

So recipe for a perfect Sunday: Music, Walks, Church, The Spirit, Family, Dessert (obviously), Wholesome movie (ELF), and Devotionals.