About a week before Christmas a family bought a new nativity scene. When they unpacked it they found 2 figures of the Baby Jesus. "Someone must have packed this wrong," the mother said, counting out the figures. "We have one Joseph, one Mary, three wise men, three shepherds, two lambs, a donkey, a cow, an angel and two babies. Oh, dear! I suppose some set down at the store is missing a Baby Jesus because we have 2."
"You two run back down to the store and tell the manager that we have an extra Jesus. Tell him to put a sign on the remaining boxes saying that if a set is missing a Baby Jesus, call 7126. Put on your warm coats, it's freezing cold out there." The manager of the store copied down mother's message and the next time they were in the store they saw the cardboard sign that read, "If you're missing Baby Jesus, call 7126." All week long they waited for someone to call. Surely, they thought, someone was missing that important figurine. Each time the phone rang mother would say, "I'll bet that's about Jesus," but it never was. Father tried to explain there are thousands of these scattered over the country and the figurine could be missing from a set in Florida or Texas or California. Those packing mistakes happen all the time. He suggested just put the extra Jesus back in the box and forget about it. "Put Baby Jesus back in the box! What a terrible thing to do," said the children. "Surely someone will call," mother said. "We'll just keep the two of them together in the manger until someone calls. When no call had come by 5:00 on Christmas Eve, mother insisted that father "just run down to the store" to see if there were any sets left. "You can see them right through the window, over on the counter," she said. "If they are all gone, I'll know someone is bound to call tonight." "Run down to the store?" father thundered. "It's 15 below zero out there!" "Oh, Daddy, we'll go with you," Tommy and Mary began to put on their coats. Father gave a long sigh and headed for the front closet. "I can't believe I'm doing this," he muttered. Tommy and Mary ran ahead as father reluctantly walked out in the cold. Mary got to the store first and pressed her nose up to the store window. "They're all gone, Daddy," she shouted. "Every set must be sold." "Hooray," Tommy said. "The mystery will now be solved tonight!" Father heard the news still a half block away and immediately turned on his heel and headed back home. When they got back into the house they noticed that mother was gone and so was the extra Baby Jesus figurine. "Someone must have called and she went out to deliver the figurine," my father reasoned, pulling off his boots. "You kids get ready for bed while I wrap mother's present." Then the phone rang. Father yelled "answer the phone and tell 'em we found a home for Jesus." But it was mother calling with instructions for us to come to 205 Chestnut Street immediately, and bring three blankets, a box of cookies and some milk. "Now what has she gotten us into?" my father groaned as we bundled up again. "205 Chestnut. Why that's across town. Wrap that milk up good in the blankets or it will turn to ice before we get there. Why can't we all just get on with Christmas? It's probably 20 below out there now. And the wind is picking up. Of all the crazy things to do on a night like this." When they got to the house at 205 Chestnut Street it was the darkest one on the block. Only one tiny light burned in the living room and, the moment we set foot on the porch steps, my mother opened the door and shouted, "They're here, Oh thank God you got here, Ray! You kids take those blankets into the living room and wrap up the little ones on the couch. I'll take the milk and cookies." "Would you mind telling me what is going on, Ethel?" my father asked. "We have just walked through below zero weather with the wind in our faces all the way." "Never mind all that now," my mother interrupted. "There isn't any heat in this house and this young mother is so upset she doesn't know what to do. Her husband walked out on her and those poor little children will have a very bleak Christmas, so don't you complain. I told her you could fix that oil furnace in a jiffy." My mother strode off to the kitchen to warm the milk while my brother and I wrapped up the five little children who were huddled together on the couch. The children's mother explained to my father that her husband had run off, taking bedding, clothing, and almost every piece of furniture, but she had been doing all right until the furnace broke down. "I been doin' washin' and ironin' for people and cleanin' the five and dime," she said. "I saw your number every day there, on those boxes on the counter. When the furnace went out, that number kept going' through my mind. 7162 7162. Said on the box that if a person was missin' Jesus, they should call you. That's how I knew you were good Christian people, willin' to help folks. I figured that maybe you would help me, too. So I stopped at the grocery store tonight and I called your misses. I'm not missin' Jesus, mister, because I sure love the Lord. But I am missin' heat. I have no money to fix that furnace." "Okay, Okay," said father. "You've come to the right place. Now let's see. You've got a little oil burner over there in the dining room. Shouldn't be too hard to fix. Probably just a clogged flue. I'll look it over, see what it needs." Mother came into the living room carrying a plate of cookies and warm milk. As she set the cups down on the coffee table, I noticed the figure of Baby Jesus lying in the center of the table. It was the only sign of Christmas in the house. The children stared wide-eyed with wonder at the plate of cookies my mother set before them. Father finally got the oil burner working but said, "You need more oil. I'll make a few calls tonight and get some oil. Yes sir, you came to the right place", father grinned. On the way home father did not complain about the cold weather and had barely set foot inside the door when he was on the phone. "Ed, hey, how are ya, Ed?" "Yes, Merry Christmas to you, too. Say Ed, we have kind of an unusual situation here. I know you've got that pick-up truck. Do you still have some oil in that barrel on your truck? You do?" By this time the rest of the family were pulling clothes out of their closets and toys off of their shelves. It was long after their bedtime when they were wrapping gifts. The pickup came. On it were chairs, three lamps, blankets and gifts. Even though it was 30 below, father let them ride along in the back of the truck. No one ever did call about the missing figure in the nativity set, but as I grow older I realize that it wasn't a packing mistake at all. Jesus saves, that's what He does. Author unknown
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(StatePoint) Kids’ tech is getting more creative and fun, just in time for the holidays. Here are a few of the coolest gift ideas available this season in three tech categories: Wearable Tech One of the best-selling kids’ smartwatches of the past three years has come out with a next-generation model boasting new, on-trend features. The KidiZoom Smartwatch DX3 from VTech now includes “School” mode and the ability to play games with other DX3 users. Packaged in a kid-friendly, sleek design, the smartwatch features two cameras for pictures, selfies and videos, and an LED that doubles as a camera flash and flashlight. Kids can play single-player games or link up with friends who also have a DX3 to share preset messages or play games like Treasure Hunt, Find the Diamonds and Tic-Tac-Toe. Additionally, kids can create custom clockfaces from their photos or swipe through more than 50 animated faces. With all these cool features, parents might worry about time management. But they need not fear. The DX3 offers adults the ability to set daily reminders to help kids stay on track. Plus, they can even switch the device to “School” mode for watch-only use. With additional, free games, clockfaces and camera effects available for download, this is one gift that will keep kids engaged long past the excitement of the holiday season. Recommended for ages 4 years and up and available in variety of colors, the KidiZoom Smartwatch DX3 is available now at major retailers. For more information, visit vtechkids.com. Drones Is your child ready for their first drone? The X20 RC Drone Helicopter Toy is a good place to start. Suitable for indoor and outdoor use, kids will love its 360 degree stunt flip and auto-hovering features and its streamlined, easy-to-operate remote control. And just because it’s small doesn’t mean it’s fragile. Weighing in at just half a pound, this drone is as stable as it is compact. Cameras Recommended for ages 4 years and up, the KidiZoom PrintCam is so much more than a standard camera. It allows kids to take photos, selfies and video, then review, click and immediately print regular or panoramic black-and-white photos. Kids can let their creativity loose by adding stickers, filters and borders to any image or video, or turn photos into drawings they can color themselves. The included paper roll prints up to 80 images, and refill packs feature more paper rolls, plus adhesive paper to turn photos into stickers. Beyond these cool features, the camera also has more than 110 templates and activities, including small greeting cards and printable games, as well as video games for playtime between photoshoots. An included USB cable lets kids transfer full-color photos and videos to a computer at an adult’s discretion. Finally, the ability to set daily time and printing limits can ensure kids are using their cameras only when it’s appropriate. To brighten the holiday season for kids, let the coolest, cutting-edge technology do the trick. ***** Wanted to explain why me a Christian has been choosing to celebrate the Jewish Holidays (appointed times).
Yes, Jesus died on the cross and we do not have to obey those times. 1st off anything can be changed and done legalistically, Christmas Or sabbath etc. But God did not created the sabbath for men not men for the sabbath. Meaning He graciously gave us a time of rest. Just like these appointed times. He gave them to us to take time out of your busy lives and spend in His amazing grace, love and mercy. We get so busy with our lives that some people would stay busy and forget to turn to their Abba. 2nd our God knows how to party. We give ourselves 1 day here and there. Some of his appointed times are 8 days. 8 days to spend with family and friends. To relax in His spirit, grace and love. 3rd there are things that happened in the new testament during those old testament seasons that give us a reason to want to celebrate. (Ex His actual birthday). This is a time that I can dive deeper into His Word and find those beautiful nuggets and feel closer with my creator! 4th I get to celebrate with my friends and family and have people ask me questions like why are you doing this or what is the importance of this and I can share with people about the God who loves them. 5th practicing for the 1000 yr reign. Pretty sure we are going to work hard and party hard cause God gives us more than we deserve and loves to see us praise Him and enjoy ourselves. 6th we all need the time of restoration from the battle to be refilled The Christmas Coat
An old boy was fumblin around one day In a women’s clothing store He’d found his wife a Christmas coat And was headed for the door When he bumped into a little boy That looked like he was lost And he said “Mister can you help me Find out how much something costs? Here it is almost Christmas And the nights are gettin cold Winter time is on us And my mom don’t have a coat I’ve been workin for the neighbors And saving for a time” And in his tiny outstretched hand Was a dollar and a dime His gaze went from that big eyed boy To that pretty Christmas coat And he finally cleared away the lump That had gathered in his throat He said “Son that’s just what this coat costs We’re lucky that we found ‘er” And he turned around and gave a wink To the lady at the counter She put it in a pretty box And wrapped it up just so And went off in the back And found a big red Christmas bow He said “ I thank you for your help sir And I kindly thank you ma’am I hope y’all are gonna have a big Christmas Cause now I know I am” Well the old boy walked home busted Except for the dollar and the dime Thinkin he’d just have to buy The coat another time He told his wife that Christmas this year Wouldn’t be much fun And he gently took her in his arms And told her what he’d done She said “ why you old softie I wouldn’t trade you for a farm I’ve got two or three old coats And your love to keep me warm “ She put that money in a matchbox And placed it beneath their tree And said “that is the grandest gift You’ve ever given me” The years went by like years will do When people are in love Their marriage was a golden bond That was forged by God above Then one day came some bitter news That filled his heart with fright The doctor told the old man’s wife That she was going to lose her sight He said “there’s an operation we can do But it puts me on the spot Cause it’s a quite complex procedure And it’s going to cost a lot” The old man said “doctor I’m a failure I’ve made no preparation We don’t have the money For that kind of an operation “ The doctor got the strangest look And he sat there for a while And then he slowly nodded And he broke out in a smile He said “ why sir you can’t fool me You’re a very wealthy man You long ago invested In the world’s best savings plan I’ll see she gets the best of care She’s going to be just fine And the total cost to you old friend Is a dollar and a dime” The old man stared in disbelief Then he recognized that smile The one he’d seen those years ago On a loving thoughtful child He said “what you gave to me that day Was more than just a coat You gave me the gift of giving And you gave my mother hope My mother’d been mistreated Neglected and abused But she gave life just one more chance And it was all because of you Now every year she takes that coat And lays it beneath our tree It represents to us the things That Christmas ought to be She says that when we leave this world For a better home someday The only things that we’ll take with us Are the things we gave away “ From “the mindless ramblings of a senile old hermit” I hope you all have a very merry Christmas! “It was the night before Christmas and Santa was busy making his rounds He was light on his feet making sure he didn't make a sound. But he took notice that some homes didn't have that Christmas Glee. so he decided to stop because he thought that just can't be. He crept in a mommy's bedroom and stopped dead in his steps, as he saw a little angel hugging his mom as she slept The little angel looked up and cried " oh Santa you are finally here!! I've been waiting for you to help me let Mommy know I am near". Santa picked up the wee angel and asked him " What can I do? I'm just a simple toy maker I can't make your mommy's dreams come true". So the two of them sat and they sat for a while until the tiny angel jumped up and screamed with a smile. "let's leave her a sign a beautiful sign from above, let her know it's from me sent from heaven with love"!!! So Santa dug and he dug deep, in that big glorious bag that was filled with lots of treats . He pulled out a beautiful white feather that look like it was made out of snow. And he thought such a beautiful sign that only a grieving mother would know. He placed it on her nightstand and kissed the angel on his head. Then placed him next to his mom as she slumbered in bed. I think I'll stay here with Mommy and visit her in her dreams tonight, She misses me dearly and needs to know I'm all right. Santa made his way to his sled, And wiped a tear from his eye. He fell to his knees and managed to cry. Merry Christmas to all the grieving mothers across this big land. And let it be known your angels are with you holding your hands....” -unknown author (StatePoint) When holiday shopping for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, take the extra step of ensuring your loved ones only unwrap gifts that are earth-friendly. It all starts with reading the label on the goods you purchase. While they’ve been around for decades, more consumers are becoming aware of a toxic class of chemicals called perfluorinated chemicals, often referred to as PFAS or PFCs. Because PFCs are good at resisting oil, stains, grease and water, they’ve become a go-to treatment for many manufacturers. In fact, PFCs are so widely used, they’re found on everything from shoes and jackets to couches and food wrappers -- including the many items designed for nature lovers! The issue is that these chemicals find ways to enter the environment, the food chain and our water supply, which is bad for wildlife, the planet and human health. Because PFCs have a very hard time breaking down, they’re infamously known as “forever chemicals.” Thanks to a heightened understanding of the health issues associated with PFCs, there has been a growing sense of urgency around removing them from consumer products. With a little care, you can holiday shop with brands that have taken earth-friendly steps, and in some cases, bounds, to try to avoid these so-called “forever chemicals.” Need some inspiration? The following gift guide includes some of the best outdoor gear designed to stand up to adventures of all kinds, and it’s all eco-friendly to boot! Cozy Footwear Give the gift of indoor comfort outdoors with the warm, cozy Howser collection from KEEN Footwear. A hygge-worthy, “sleeping bag for feet,” their fuzzy lining and PU cushioned insoles mean they’re as cozy as house slippers, and their grippy, sturdy rubber outsoles make them a solid choice for outdoor use. The collection includes slip-ons, ankle boots and high top choices for women, men and kids -- all of which are a natural fit for chilly evenings by the fire or rolling out of the tent in the morning to get the coffee brewing. Not only is the entire collection PFC-free, options that contain leather are sourced from Leather Working Group-certified tanneries, which use processes to reduce chemical use and their impact on watersheds, creating an environmentally preferred leather. “Eliminating PFCs from footwear is easier said than done,” says Erik Burbank, vice president of KEEN Effect, a team that guides the brand’s responsible manufacturing efforts. “We’ve spent years working to eliminate PFCs from our products and supply chain with safe alternatives while delivering the performance people expect from KEEN. In that time, we estimate we’ve saved over 50,000 KGs of fluorinated chemicals from being introduced into the environment. As part of our Detox the Planet initiative, we continue to push for ways to put the environment first.” To learn more, visit keenfootwear.com. Layer Up Trekkers and campers know that weather is unpredictable and that makes layering essential. Now, they can do so with both performance and sustainability in mind. All of Houdini’s sportwear apparel is PFC-free. Plus, many of its garments are made from recycled materials, and are either recyclable or completely biodegradable. Keep your loved ones warm and prepared for anything by checking out the Swedish brand’s base layers, mid layers, outerwear and accessories. Pack Smart From snowshoe backpacks to hiking backpacks to packs designed specifically for trail runners, the full line-up of outdoor gear offered by Deuter is highly functional and contains no PFCs. Instead, the brand relies on Durable Water Repellent treatments that are not harmful to people or the planet. The best outdoor gear protects the nature it celebrates. This holiday season, shop mindfully for outdoor enthusiasts. (StatePoint) The average military spouse moves eight to 12 times in the span of a 20-year military career. Each move results in starting over in the new location and dealing with the struggle of meeting new people, sustaining meaningful employment, and feeling a sense of community in each new location. While the USO is most often thought of as an organization that entertains U.S. service members, their work extends to providing vital support to the entire military community, including these programs that directly support military spouses: • Networking: In 2016, the USO launched its Military Spouse Networking Events. This worldwide initiative empowers military spouses by connecting them to their social, professional, and community networks. Offering opportunities to interact with other military spouses, attendees instantly connect with one another and to their communities. The USO also invites local hiring employers, community and military leaders, and organizations to support military spouses. Spouses leave these networking events with customized business cards, a professional “elevator pitch,” and a collection of 15-25 new connections. • Friendship: Each year, the USO hosts hundreds of monthly “Coffee Connections,” connecting thousands of military spouses in their local communities and networks. These gatherings are an opportunity to connect with old and new friends, share advice, and learn about local events. In 2019, Coffee Connection Live launched in response to requests from those who didn’t have ready access to a USO location. These virtual “coffee chats” between USO military spouses and influential guests cover timely topics relevant to the military spouse community, such as employment and wellness. All episodes are recorded and available at uso.org/campaign/coffee-connection-live. • Workshops: Feelings of loss, uncertain identity and a lack of purpose caused by the rigors of military life are common, according to USO research. However, a series of workshops launched in 2017 help fill that gap, including Brittany Bocher’s “Discovering Your Spark.” The purpose of the workshops is to help military spouses find their passion and help them approach life’s challenges with a positive and proactive outlook. “Discovering Your Spark” can be found at uso.org/programs/discovering-your-spark. • Baby showers: Many military moms-to-be are often away from their families, friends and support networks during their pregnancies. The USO hosts virtual or hybrid baby showers for military families featuring baby shower games, local guest speakers, and drawings for gifts to provide a sense of home. In 2020, Johnson & Johnson proudly became the presenting partner, supporting the USO Special Delivery program for all expectant military families. More than 13,000 expectant service members and military spouse parents have been served through this program since it began in 2013. Members of the military community -- service members and spouses -- can learn more about programs available in their area by downloading the USO mobile app. For those interested in learning more about how they can help the USO deliver these vital services to the military community, visit uso.org/programs. Thanks to a range of programs and new support, military spouses are more empowered than ever to meet the many challenges associated with military life. ----------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------- PHOTO SOURCE: (c) USO Photos (StatePoint) Bringing new life to classic holiday traditions starts with understanding the origins of how these traditions came to be. The Olesen family of O&H Danish Bakery knows how important it is to share such stories. The family-owned and operated bakery is offering fun facts and inspiration for celebrating classic Christmas traditions. And because some of these particular traditions are Danish, you’ll also be embracing “hygge.” Pronounced “hoo-ga,” this Nordic concept is all about creating a cozy atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life. Something Sweet Forty-four percent of people in a survey commissioned by O&H Danish Bakery and conducted by SWNS Media Group and One Poll say the holiday spirit wouldn’t be the same if they didn’t have their traditional holiday dessert. For many families, that dessert is Kringle. Approximately 43% of respondents in the same survey enjoy this treat – which is made of 36 layers of butter and pastry -- on Christmas Day. While Kringle is a traditional Danish delicacy, it’s actually savored worldwide. O&H Kringle has been shipped to more than 100 countries and has made landfall in all seven continents -- including Antarctica! “The holiday season is the most magical time of year for our family. It’s such a privilege to spread cheer and be a part of family traditions across the country. As a family-owned business started by my great-grandfather, an immigrant from Denmark, traditions rooted in our heritage mean so much to us, and we pass down their origin stories to each generation,” says Eric Olesen, the third-generation co-owner of the Racine, Wisconsin-based bakery. When it comes to traditions, the bakery remains steadfast in unveiling a new holiday flavor every December, its busiest season, making more than 7,000 Kringle every day. This year’s “Christmas Fudge Kringle” is a riff on the traditional pastry. Featuring scratch-made premium dark chocolate filling, frosted in chocolate icing and garnished with Christmas nonpareils, it was inspired by O&H customers’ favorite holiday cake, “Ohhhh Fudge! Layer Cake,” the name of which comes from the movie, “A Christmas Story.” To place your Kringle order for the holidays, visit ohdanishbakery.com. Decorating the Tree As you select your tree and decorate it with treasured ornaments, consider this tradition’s long and storied history. Did you know that bringing trees into one’s home during winter is a centuries-old tradition? The custom’s exact origins are debatable -- with some historians believing the ancient Egyptians first adopted the practice and others attributing its invention to pagan Europeans. However, the modern Christmas tree, much like we know it today, became a widespread practice throughout Europe beginning in the 16th century. Fun Food Traditions As a family-owned food business, it’s no surprise that the Olesen family has a few of their own delicious holiday traditions. After dinner on Christmas Eve, they serve Risalamande, a Danish rice pudding dessert typically containing a whole almond. Serving as a fun Christmas-lottery, the one who finds the almond wins a small present. The bakers at O&H even created a Kringle, called A Very Danish Christmas Kringle, in honor of this dessert! Christmas morning, the family prepares Aebleskiver, which are Danish pancake balls commonly served with such toppings as lingenberries, powdered sugar and fruit preserves. O&H offers the pre-made mix and even the specialty pans for this purpose to those who want to try this at home. Visit their site for more information. This holiday season, embrace holiday traditions. At the same time, don’t be afraid to put new twists on these classics -- whether it’s livening up family recipes or buying new ornaments for your tree. (StatePoint) While you may love your holiday traditions, you may not have given much thought to the origins of these customs. When it comes to sending Christmas cards, this long-standing tradition has a fascinating history. Did you know that these seasonal greetings date back to the 1840s? The annual custom was started by trendsetter Queen Victoria herself, whose published engraving featuring the winter wonderland at Windsor inspired her subjects to follow suit. Stateside, Annie Oakley was another Christmas card pioneer, sending the first known personalized Christmas card in 1891. While the 20th century saw the rise of the folded card sent by mail, today, digital greetings are yet another way to show friends and family you care, thanks to a wide variety of options available. For example, SmashUps personalized video greetings allow users to send customized holiday wishes featuring favorite celebrities, including Santa himself. To learn more, visit smashups.com or download the SmashUps app, available for iPhone and Android. As you send and receive seasons’ greetings this year, take time to appreciate the long and storied history of this fun and festive tradition. ***** 5 Holiday Travel Tips for Pet Parents (StatePoint) Traveling with pets over the holidays? Whether you’re taking to the skies or the highways and byways, bringing furry friends along for the ride can sometimes be stressful for pets and people alike. Consider these tips to make the journey easier on everyone: 1. Pack right: Be sure to pack more than enough food and medication for your pet for the duration of your scheduled travels and beyond. You’ll want to make sure that your pet is all set should unforeseen circumstances arise, such as weather-related travel delays. You should also bring with you a water supply for your pet, bowls for food and water, a leash, carrier, a veterinary first aid kit, and of course, your pet’s favorite toys. And if you’re traveling somewhere cold and snowy, pack dog boots to protect paws from snow, ice and salt. 2. Support smooth sailing: Many dogs find travel particularly stressful. However, you can help support balanced behavior while on the road this season by giving your dog SurityPro Calm Soft Chews, a smoky bacon-flavored CBD soft chew for dogs. Formulated to support your dog’s ability to cope with everyday stress, these chews can also be useful for those pet parents who are staying home during the holidays and expecting to entertain frequent guests. From Canopy Growth, the industry leader in CBD science for pets, SurityPro offers an easy way to give just the right amount of CBD to your dog. The brand partners with veterinarians, scientists and leading academic institutions to create chews and drops that support dogs’ joint health and flexibility, healthy aging -- including cognitive function and eye health -- and products that enhance their physical and mental well-being. For more information and directions for use, visit www.SurityPro.com. 3. Be prepared: Losing a pet is every pet parent’s worst nightmare, particularly when you are in an unfamiliar location. Microchipping however, can help unintentionally separated pets and families reunite safely and happily. This is especially important for jet set pets who are often far from home. 4. Play by the rules: Understand the state-by-state rules for driving with your pet. For example, a handful of states require that dogs be harnessed in the car with a dog seatbelt. Wherever your travels take you, driving with pets harnessed or in a crate is safer for both you and pets. Pets should never distract the driver or sit in the front seat where the impact of the airbag could hurt your pet if deployed. 5. Fly smart: Flying? Your pet should be in good health before taking to the skies. If you’re unsure if your pet is fit for air travel, consult your veterinarian. You should also be aware that some airlines have banned particular breeds from flying due to breathing issues caused by the length of their snout. Know the rules and recommendations before booking your flight. With some smart travel strategies, you can help ensure the merriest season of the year stays happy and healthy for you and your pet. ----------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------- PHOTO SOURCE: PHOTO CAPTION: CBD products can help your pet cope with hectic holiday travels. |