Noah At The Plaza!

 

December is here and going to the Plaza has become tradition since Noah was five and even at the age of 15 love seeing Christmas through his eyes. Nostalgia always kicks in when we come here. Sure there are times where he will sigh when I ask him to take a picture but at the end of that sigh comes a smile with a "sure mom" answer. I love how agreeable he is and how much fun he actually has once our date begins. He was in awe with the decor and even though he'll say things like, "their just red big balls" I know that he thinks they are the coolest and biggest ornaments. The fact that he reminded me of Kevin Mcallister form Home Alone even for five minutes while he was wondering down the halls made me smile. Makes me extremely grateful to be able to experience the magic of christmas (without the room service.) So if you're ever "lost in New York" come and experience the magic of staying at The Plaza...even if it's just for breakfast!

Noah At The Plaza -A Christmas Tradition.

Although it's a new year and Christmas '22 is in the past I wanted to share another photo that's been traditional since Noah was a toddler. Taking pictures in front of the Plaza. It just goes to show how fast this kid is growing and yes... he is already pretty much my height. Sort of. By next hear he will definitely tower me. We didn't see Santa and although he still "believes" in him I honesty believe those days are over (insert sobbing tears.) Such a bittersweet moment but at least he still enjoys taking pictures in front of this gorgeous wreath and here we are looking our best and just taking in the moment. I was also able to capture a photo of him with Chelsea. You can view past photos here and here. And on my Instagram here and here and here! I know there are so many! It just blows my mind how fast he's growing!

Christmas Highlights of 2021!

Last day of the year and here I am scrolling through photos from Thanksgiving and remembering all the great little adventures we had. Whether it's just walking the streets of New York capturing decorative stoops to walking along a crowded fifth avenue looking at all the holiday decor. We love the city and even though we didn't get to see Santa at the Plaza that didn't stop us from getting our traditional photo. Such a special place and my how Noah has grown! I may or may not post more pics and adventures from this year in the new year but here are a few moments from the city that seemed truly magical to us! 

Radio City, The Rockefeller Tree, & All Things Christ-masy!

I'm telling you...New York at Christmas does not disappoint. I take way too many photos when I come here, and it has been nice coming to the city without it being so crowded. I am grateful to those who have stayed in their own state and not traveling here which makes the risk of the virus less contagious but unfortunately there will be tourists coming here which makes it unsafe for them if they don't quarantine or wear  a mask (which I've seen quite a few not wearing any already) but nonetheless we are careful when we are out and about and major social distance while taking photos. We only slide our mask down under our chin while snapping a quick pic! And here's our favorite venue Radio City. We will miss seeing the Rockettes this year but hope they will return next year to continue this tradition. 

Light Up Christmas With Wonder & Joy!

One of my favorite quotes from this years Christmas devotional was given by President Dieter F. Uchtdorf- 

"Even when the world may appear quite dark, when things aren't going right, when our hearts are overflowing with disappointment and worry, in the midst of of sadness and sorrow...we sing about joy to the world, and 'good will toward men' because of Christ, who came to give light to them who sit in darkness." 

This applied to me perfectly, and it's so fitting for my life right now. Although I have my sweet family by my side somewhere, someone, or something will happen to bring me down, hence being tested to see what my reaction will be. And I think of all the good times I've had in my life, and when I focus on the positive things that are going on in the world as opposed to dwelling on the negative things life isn't so bad, and all is well. 

I didn't grow up in the LDS church, and when I lived in Utah I always enjoyed going to temple square to attend the Christmas devotional as well as walking around to see the lights. I love that they have this every year. The talks that are given truly define the true meaning of the holiday season, and every time I listen to them I tear up thinking about my family, friends, acquaintances, and those who I see walking the streets in the city who seem all alone with no where to go. I think about all the things that are going wrong in this world and how I as a person can make it a better place regardless of the daggers that seem to be thrown at me on a day-to-day basis. Whether it's through motherhood, trials of life, or just petty drama with family, what matters to me is that at the end of the day I don't let it affect me. I know that the Savior knows my heart, and knows what's best for me, and strengthens me in every aspect through all negativity. 

The Christmas devotional is so inspiring, and something that I encourage for the world to see. I try to take in all the words, and have my mind focused on listening to the words of the speakers. Watching it with my family, and people that I care about makes it more meaningful. The fact that the speakers emphasize that Christmas is all about the Savior, and love reminds me of how true that is. 

A lot of their words stuck out at me on this years devotional, and it makes me so grateful to know that I have the words of a prophet and his apostles to look forward to each year. Here are some excerpts from some of the talks, and the ones that were meant for me to hear. 

"Jesus Christ is the light which shineth in darkness. May the lights of every holiday season remind us of the brightest light which Jesus Christ, our Savior."

 -Elder David E. Bednar

Linda K. Burton said, "My prayer for each of us this Christmas season is that we all come unto Christ, come and let us adore Him." Love that! 

And I'll just add that in between the tinsel, lights, pretty wrapping paper, good food, entertainment among friends, and gatherings, gifts that we receive from loved ones..."The greatest Christmas present will always be the one the Savior gave to us...His perfect peace." 

Hope y'all continue to enjoy the holiday season, and if you have an hour to spare you can view the Christmas devotional here on lds.org.