The Things I Learned During Christmas Break

 Oh Boy!  Where do I begin?  Christmas break came and went in the blink of an eye!  It was truly an incredible break.  My heart is very full.

We spent a good portion of the break in Sunny San Diego :)  I wouldn't mind living there.  I am always grateful for an opportunity to go somewhere warm and it always helps my health.

First of all, I loved every minute of spending time with this little guy.  I sure do miss him!

We had plenty of laughs!  This lovely sign was found all over the place in California, haha...

And this particular sign was found outside an apple fries shack in Legoland.  The conversation between the guy at the cash register and my Dad went something like this...

Dad:  "Hmm, I read your sign, what kinds of drinks cause cancer.  I don't want to get cancer"

Guy: "Umm I'm not really sure.  But it's not like we spray our food with cancer or anything."

Dad: "Oh ok phew!"  

Haha we were all trying so hard not to laugh.  I am so thankful that I don't have to worry about a lot of this when I choose to eat healthy.  It really is a 'blessing in the curse'

I really do love my family a whole lot!  

It was so nice to spend quality time with them.

They are my best friends :)

This little guy was a reminder to me of Tender Mercies from our Heavenly Father!

Tommy had been crying all day and this little guy jumped up his pant leg and gave all of us a good laugh, even Tommy!  (after he stopped crying that is :) )  It definitely changed our moods in such a simple yet beautiful yet funny way.  Heavenly Father truly helps us in all situations!

This was our "sandman" since we couldn't make a snowman.

Lastly, I am thankful for this break and all the special experiences with my family.  I have had the choice lately to move on from something that has meant so much to me for so long and God does not desert us.  He does not simply take away people, experiences, opportunities, friends, etc. from us.  Sometimes he fills the "void" with what we really need.  He sees what's coming and with him there are only beginnings and happy endings.  Sometimes God fills our "void" with something bigger, better, and more beautiful.  With God there are no true broken hearts.  God helps us to forgive and teaches us how to truly love.  My heart is so full.