Morning More Love Note #5

Dec 09, 2024

Your Monday Morning Love Note

"Every time a bell rings an angel gets its wings!" — Zuzu (in It's a Wonderful Life)

Well, welcome officially to the second week of December!

It's grey and rainy here today in Western North Carolina. Lights and trees are going up, shopping has begun and the holiday season is in full swing. I encourage you to take a moment to ponder the wonder of the season and remember the indelible mark that you make on the world around you. Just like the snowflakes that are all uniquely different, your presence is a masterpiece and gift to all those around you.

I am sure that most of you have seen It's a Wonderful Life with Jimmy Stewart. If you have not, run, don't walk to the remote and pull it up (it is always playing this time of year) and prepare for an hour and a half of magic. It came out in 1946 and I would venture to say it is still extremely relevant.

If you have seen it, you know that George gets a "glimpse" of what life would have been like for all those around him had he never been born.

Another great show like this is Family Man with Nicholas Cage, he also gets a "glimpse".

In the season where we celebrate the birth of Christ, do not forget Your importance to Him and that He loves you and recognizes the impact that you have in this world. If you were the only person on the planet, He would have still died to absolve your sins.

Did you know that the word angel actually means messenger of God?

In the book of Luke Chapter 2 verses 9-12, it says:

Suddenly, an Angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord's glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the Angel reassured them. "Don't be afraid." I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior-yes, the Messiah, the Lord-has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David.

My hope for you this week is that the Holy Spirit gives you many glimpses of the importance of your life in the lives of those around you and you truly have good tidings of great joy.

Now, for this week's report...

READING

I always love to read the book of Luke from the Bible this time of year so, that's exactly what I am doing. It is fun to do out loud as a family. Or, quietly with a cup of tea. Even though I try to do this every year, it always leaves a sense of awe that a teenage girl and her fiance, shepherds and kings, all show great wonder and faith and belief to travel afar for a Savior. Isn't that really what this season is about? Belief in something bigger, grander, more resolute than ourselves? Faith?

Also reading... The Pivot Year by Brianna Weist. It is set up as a thought to ponder daily. I think you will love it.

EATING

It would be easier for me to let you know what I am not eating because frankly, I am putting anything within a three foot radius into my mouth. But, this is what I am eating this week that is delicious:

Cranberry Crunch- It is an easy to throw together cranberry pie that can be a dessert or breakfast. It is from an old church cookbook (hence, the slightly grainy quality) so you know it's delish. I am actually enclosing the picture that was sent to me because it reminds me of the oI' timey recipes from my grandmother. I know I have been on a cranberry bent lately --but trust me this is good and easy!

(Drinking) Old Fashioned Russian Tea- recipe attached below. So Yummy!

PLAYING

Well, every Christmas station on the planet, of course! Also, Jingle Jangle is a heart-warming Christmas Musical on Netflix.

OBSESSING

I am obsessing over the decorations at the Biltmore.

You know that Western North Carolina had the terrible storm Helene.

The Biltmore employs 2,500 people in the area and they need us to visit, if you can, to help bring the workers back. They are currently furloughing 75% of their workforce.

It is the slowest I have ever seen and it is almost like you are in the house privately. The fireplace mantle decorations in the library will rock your world.

RECOMMENDING

I am recommending that you take a moment and drop a snail mail note to someone important to you this week. For the over-achievers... do two!

TALKING ABOUT

I am encouraging and telling all of you to take a moment to be in this season of wonder. Really Look. Really Pause. Really Listen for the bells that remind us that Angels are being awarded their wings all around us. Really show up as your authentic self and believe all of us around you are part of the beautiful tapestry of your life.

The biggest gift you can give yourself this season is being present.

Happy Monday with Good Tidings of Great Joy and Love!

Shannon

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