Merry Christmas!

 My greatest Christmas gift of all....being with my family and feeling almost like myself. 

Our traditional candlelight fondue feast!

Earlier today I actually cleaned up the house.....first time in 2 and a half months! And I even made breakfast and lunch for the kids. It made me happy to have a little glimpse of myself again. 

Christmas eve puzzle and carols. Sad I can't join in the singing this year but just grateful for all my many, many blessings. 

I love music, especially listening to my children sing.

I went to the library this week to get some books to read and was looking in the non-fiction section seeking something inspirational.  I came across this little book, truly as if it was jumping off the shelf at me.

I picked it up and read the little blurb and it was written by Spencer Kimball following his throat surgery when one night felt like an eternity.   I knew I needed to read it. 

I loved that he got out his typewriter and sat down and wrote the book.  I have found relief through writing this blog as I deal with what I am going through.   As I read his account I could feel his pains as he paced the floor and sought to find a comfortable position to let sleep come only to be denied any relief.  I too have watched the minute hands and felt the worry about losing your voice and the panic that comes from the unknown future.  I loved his account and am so grateful he shared his story because it gave me hope. 

His last page says this:

Somehow I too have found a way back to feeling more "normal".   I find myself thinking less about the cancer and it's everlasting change in my life and more about everyday life. To echo President Kimball, "TIME has been resurrected,  peace restored, and life is good again!" 

My prayer is that not only do you have a very Merry Christmas but that you feel that peace and true joy that only our Savior brings.