It's Beginning to Look Alot Like Christmas...

We made sure we brought a bit of Christmas from home... to make us feel more at home. 

Our 4 foot tree has some Nauvoo wooded rounds and some "brick" ornaments Bryce made with cookie cutters.

It looks really good.  

This is the 2nd of 4 quilts I've now made for the humanitarian efforts here in the Mission. It's fun to make quilts for others who don't have much. 

A scarf for good will. So grateful to have learned how to crochet here in Nauvoo! Thanks to all those who've taught me in the various historic sites over the last few weeks. It's fun!!! I guess you know the family will be getting for gifts over the next 10 years!!!

This is a beautiful Nativity in the Visitor's Center. It's absolutely lovely.  

Some of the folks gathered to watch the tree lighting. I like this because the Christus is lit reminding the group of the true reason for celebrating Christmas.  Various local school choirs sang before the tree lighting. 

The highlight of the evening, by far, was the Nativity. The true meaning of Christmas and a love for and belief in the Savior Jesus Christ was tangible in the room. The Mission Presidency were the Wise Men (type casting) and the missionary couple that were Mary and Joseph were tender and loving toward each other and the baby Jesus. It was the highlight for us. 

Three days later we were in Handel's Messiah with full orchestra. It was alot of fun. This will be our 12th year of singing "The Messiah".  Who knew we'd be able to do it in St.Peter and Paul's Catholic Church here in Nauvoo, Illinois!