The 12 Days of Christmas and it's Christian Meaning

The "Twelve Days of Christmas" is a song that many of us grew up singing - yet what do we really know about its origins? 

From 1558 until 1829, Roman Catholics in England were not permitted to practice their faith openly. Someone during that era wrote this carol as a catechism song for young Catholics. It has two levels of meaning: the surface meaning plus a hidden meaning known only to members of their church. Each element in the carol has a code word for a religious reality which the children could remember.

It has come to my attention that the historical version of the song and its origins posted here may not be completely accurate. Nonetheless, below is a possible explanation as to the song's history and meaning that also matches the video at the end of this post.

-The partridge in a pear tree was Jesus Christ.

-Two turtle doves were the Old and New Testaments.

-Three French hens stood for Faith, Hope and Love.

-Four calling birds were the four gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke &   John.

-Five golden rings recalled the Torah or Law, the first five books of the     Old Testament.

-Six geese a-laying stood for the six Days of Creation.

-Seven swans a-swimming represented the sevenfold gifts of the 
 Holy Spirit-  Prophesy,Serving, Teaching, Exhortation, Contribution,         Leadership, and Mercy.

-Eight maids a-milking were the eight Beatitudes.

-Nine ladies dancing were the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit--

  Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, 
  Gentleness, and Self Control.

-Ten lords a-leaping were the Ten Commandments.

-Eleven pipers piping stood for the eleven faithful Disciples.

                                     -Twelve drummers drumming symbolized the twelve 
                                     points of  belief in the Apostles' Creed.

The popular Christmas carol goes like this:

On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me...

       A Partridge in a Pear Tree.

On the second day of Christmas, my true love gave to me...

2 Turtle Doves, and a Partridge in a Pear Tree.

On the third day of Christmas, my true love gave to me...

3 French Hens, 2 Turtle Doves, and a Partridge in a Pear Tree.

On the fourth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me...

4 Calling Birds, 3 French Hens, 2 Turtle Doves, and a

Partridge in a Pear Tree.

      And so on... until the twelfth day -

The earliest well-known version of the music of the song was recorded by English scholar James O. Halliwell in 1842, and he published a version in 4th edition 

The Nursery Rhymes of England (1846), [Wikipedia]

Here is the Twelve Days of Christmas performed 

         by the New York Philharmonic Orchestra -          

Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It was written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together. 

Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

The 12 Days of Christmas and it's Christian Meaning

Motherhood - How Relevant Are We?

A mother is she who can take the place of all others, but whose place no one else can take.   ~ Cardinal Mermillod

Do you feel as though you have no influence in your home?  Do you look around at your children and wonder if anything you’ve taught them actually permeated their minds and spirits?  The world would have you think so...

Are you even relevant to their success in a society that devalues Godly parenthood? Well, in God’s Eyes you certainly are!

There are moments I wish I could go “back in time” and change what I did or didn’t do.  There are things I should have done with my son, or times I should have taken ownership of a volatile situation or conversation.  I remember opportunities missed and instances where I just should have stood firm and said, “No!” 

We are not perfect Moms, though we strive to be.  We often wish our kids came with Owners Manuals.  I would have enjoyed a “free online Chat support” when I had a question, or perhaps a “pro-rated warranty” as they got older.  But wait - we have something even better – God’s Word and prayer! How many Moms have worn out knees and prayer journals full of petitions on behalf of their kids?  How many of us have purchased books like The New Strong Willed Child by James Dobson, or The Power of a Praying Parent by Stormie Omartin?  Let’s face it – we all need help; one way or another! So - how do our parenting skills compare to those in the Bible?

Here are two examples of motherhood in Scripture to contemplate:  

Eve and Jochebed 

They are both mothers of significance. They had children that shaped the future of mankind. Both women faced loss and eventual blessing.  Here are their stories…

First -  Genesis chapters 3 and 4 introduce us to Eve, the first mother.  Adam called her name Eve, because she was the mother of all living humans.  She conceived and bore Cain, and said, “I have gotten a man from the Lord.”  Cain worked in the fields and tilled the earth which yielded crops, of which he presented his sacrifice to the Lord.  She then bore Abel, the son who was loving and responsible, tending the flocks in the meadows.  Able and Cain each offered sacrifices to the Lord God.  However, Able’s sacrifice was accepted, and Cain’s was not.  Cain killed Abel in a jealous rage over what appeared to be God’s favoritism.  Cain was subsequently banished by God for shedding his brother’s blood. 

What loss and devastation Eve must have suffered!  Do you think she blamed herself for the tragedy they were now facing?  How could she go on after losing both sons?  We can only imagine how Eve must have felt when she heard God’s words ringing in her ears, “I will greatly multiply your sorrow and your conception; In pain you shall bring forth children.”  She and Adam had been cursed by God after their disobedience.  Now that sorrow and pain were evidenced in the heartbreak Eve experienced.  The first mother on earth mourned one son who was now dead and the other who was never to be seen again. 

Eventually Adam and Eve conceived Seth, whose lineage began to “call on the name of the Lord” (Gen. 5).  Do you think Eve did things a bit differently in regards to child rearing the second time around?  I imagine she spent more time pouring herself into his little life – teaching him about God’s Goodness and about Godly character.  She and Adam most likely recanted how his two older siblings had lived, and what happened when God’s laws weren’t adhered to.  In God’s great mercy, their third son, Seth,  would provide the pathway to mankind’s salvation over many generations, which eventually culminated in the Lord Jesus Christ Himself (Luke 3).

Second - In Exodus 2 we are introduced to Jochebed, the daughter of Levi, born to him in Egypt.  She was the wife of Amram and was the mother of Aaron, Miriam and Moses.  Her courage and ingenuity saved her son Moses from the wicked mandate of Pharaoh to kill every male Israelite child.  She cleverly hid him for three months, before placing him among the reeds in a water-tight basket along the Nile River.

As she watched Miriam approach Pharaoh’s daughter, she must have been relieved to hear that she would be nursing and weaning the child herself before handing him over permanently.  Those few early years were no doubt full of Godly teaching and a loving example to that little Hebrew child.  Can you imagine the pain and sacrifice she endured as she watched her young son disappear into Pharaoh’s exotic palace to be raised as an Egyptian?

 I believe Jochebed was an important part of Moses’ life as a young child and into the reaches of adulthood.  She no doubt had an influence on his character, integrity and love for the Lord God of Israel.   She also raised Miriam (the eldest) and their brother Aaron, who appeared with Moses in front of the great Pharaoh of Egypt prior to releasing the children of Israel.  Were her children perfect?  No way.  They all displayed major character flaws.  All were reprimanded and punished by God for their disobedience.  However, all three witnessed God’s Sovereign power, deliverance and blessing in their lives and in their future destinies.

The whole of the matter is this:  Mothers have 

great influence over their children.

God’s Word is very clear on what we can do.  The book of Proverbs is rich in advice and practical wisdom.  Proverbs 22:6 says, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”  We must teach by example and pray for their spiritual growth.  We are to “watch over the ways of our household, and not remain idle” – but stay balanced as we lead our children into adulthood one step at a time.  May we look to our Heavenly Father for His guidance and strength.

Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It was written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

Motherhood - How Relevant Are We?

The Christmas Gift

“Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” (II Corinthians 9:15)

Christmas isn’t just about the gifts, or is it?  We all know it’s better to give than to receive. Sometimes we spend months looking for just the right gift to give. We often take the time to wrap it with colorful paper, ribbons and bows. Presentation is everything! Once in a while we’ll try to get the recipient to “guess” what’s inside. There’s just something about gift giving that can be so exhilarating!

Matthew Chapter 2 tells us, “When they [Magi] had come into the house they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” These were precious gifts fit for royalty, which had been transported for hundreds of miles. The wise men had followed a bright star which had originated in the East, and had led them to the specific dwelling place of the Christ Child.

One of my favorite passages of scripture is in the 4th Chapter of John. Jesus had a Divine appointment with a woman in Samaria. His disciples had gone into town to purchase food and provisions. While they were gone, Jesus remained by Jacob’s well, weary from the journey. The woman came out at noonday to fetch water because she was an outcast in the community. As she drew the water, Jesus said to her, “Give Me a drink”, to which she replied that Jews don’t normally have social contact with Samaritans. Verse 10 is the best part! Jesus said to her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is who says to you, ‘Give Me a drink,’ you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water.” Jesus goes on to explain in verse 14 (after her rant about Abraham and their shared heritage) “Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, “but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst…” 

Christ had extended her the favor of grace. Verse 15 tells us she wanted that gift right then and there! She was tired of her old life and knew He had something real to offer. She basically said, “Show me where to sign-up! I’m ready!” Romans 6:23 tells us, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” The woman at the well knew she was in sin and would face her Maker. God’s Righteousness demands a payment for sin. Jesus shared the good news with her that God’s Gift was indeed standing before her. He offered her eternal life in exchange for eternal separation from God. God in the flesh offered her the greatest token of His love.

Jesus meets us right where we are – ready to give us The Gift of God. Of course, it’s available anytime – not just at Christmas! James 1:17 says, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.” No one knows how to give gifts like Our Heavenly Father!  Matthew 7:11 states, “If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, now much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who as Him!”

Your greatest gift is what Jesus has already prepared for you… He is just waiting for you to accept it!  God sent Jesus in the flesh  -  Emmanuel  - “God with us” - 2000+ years ago.  

Make this your best Christmas ever!

To view a presentation by the Billy Graham Evangelical Assoc. on how to become a Christian, please visit this link: http://bit.ly/hHxb7z   (Steps to Peace with God)

Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.   Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

The Christmas Gift

FATHER - It's Your Day!

We honor You...We esteem You...We love You...

Fathers generally hold a special place in our hearts that is so unique, it is hard to define. 

I suppose that has to do with the fact that they are quite often the first true male role model we have in our earthly family.

For the newborn, the toddler, and the young child - Dad is the main man.  He is the one you cuddle-up with in his over sized easy chair. He is the one who holds your tiny hands as he leads you across the room step by step. He plays peek-a-boo and chases you through the house as you squeal in delight. He tucks you in bed and scares away bad dreams and dreaded monsters in the closet. He reads you stories and answers endless questions. He stands guard as you venture out into your strange new world...

Our heavenly Father likewise cares for us - both in the natural world and the spiritual realm.

When we are hurting and venerable, we can approach our Abba (daddy) and crawl up into His lap of mercy. There we feel secure and safe. When we acknowledge His positional sovereignty, we begin to grasp His great power and authority. As the child's song Jesus Loves Me says, "We are weak - but He is strong".

In Luke 12:32 Jesus says, "Do not fear little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom."

Our heavenly Father longs for us to solely rely upon Him. Our efforts apart from Him are futile and empty. When we give Him our availability - He will give us our ability to do what He has called us to do. He is our advocate and counselor. He is our teacher and mentor. All of our dreams and desires are nestled safely in our God ordained destiny.

Celebrate this Father's Day knowing that your heavenly Father rejoices in the day your were born. 

God longs to make us children of His Kingdom. He draws us unto Himself and awaits our spiritual rebirth. We were created for His good pleasure and fellowship. Celebrate that relationship.

Here are a couple of past posts to read and share with others for Father's Day

A Tribute to my Dad on Father's Day

Military Dad Far From Home

Finally, when life is pressure filled and complicated  - make time with your Father and sit in His presence. I enjoy visualizing sitting in a tranquil garden communing with my heavenly Father.

Imagine the wonderment, the serenity, the beauty...

Smell the flowers' fragrant scent. Listen to the trickling water as it flows downstream. Gaze upon the colorful flora. Listen to the cheerful singing of the birds. Feel the gentle breezes on your cheek. Touch the grassy carpet beneath your feet. Engage your full senses as you rest in His creation.

Psalm 46:10 tells us to, "be still and know He is God."  That means stilling your mind and thoughts. Let His holy Word infuse you with truth and life. Meditate on His goodness, His faithfulness, and His promises.

Have a journal nearby to write out questions or jot down Scriptures that come to mind. Pour your heart out to Him as the psalmist David did. Be real with God - after all, He knows your inner most thoughts. He knows your pain and your disappointments. He loves you with His perfect love...

Jesus prayed for all believers in John 17:24 

 "Father, I desire that they also whom You gave Me may be with Me where I am, that they may behold My glory which You have given Me; for You loved Me before the foundation of the world."

Enjoy the hymn "In the Garden" as sung by Alan Jackson... 

Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together. 

Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

FATHER - It's Your Day!

Calling All Mothers...

Image credit: 123RF Stock Photo

Famous Quotes:

"I remember my mother's prayers and they have always followed me. They have clung to me all my life." 
-Abraham Lincoln 

 "My mother was the most beautiful woman I ever saw. All I am I owe to my mother. I attribute all my success in life to the moral, intellectual and physical education I received from her." 

-George Washington 

 "The most important thing a father can do for his children is to love their mother." 
-Author Unknown 

Suzanna Wesley had seventeen children, but is said to have given each of them one day of special attention and training per month. Both John and brother Charles Wesley viewed their mother as a vital source of inspiration and encouragement for their ministries. They are the founders of the Methodist church. Susanna prayed this powerful prayer on behalf of her family...

A PRAYER OF SUSANNA WESLEY

You, O Lord, have called us to watch and pray.
Therefore, whatever may be the sin against which we pray,
make us careful to watch against it,
and so have reason to expect that our prayers will be answered.
In order to perform this duty aright,
grant us grace to preserve a sober, equal temper,
and sincerity to pray for your assistance. Amen.

How many Moms have worn out knees and prayer journals full of petitions on behalf of their kids?  How many of us have purchased books like The New Strong Willed Child by James Dobson, or The Power of a Praying Parent by Stormie Omartin?  Let’s face it – we all need help; one way or another!

One of my favorite examples in Scripture of motherhood is in I Samuel 1:1-28. We see Elkanah, an Ephraimite who had two wives.  Peninnah had given him children, but Hannah was barren. Peninnah ridiculed her every year when they journeyed to Shiloh to worship and offer their sacrifices to God. 

Hannah cried out to the Lord in anguish and prayed for a son to dedicate to His service. God heard her petitions and granted her wish. After the child was weaned, plans were made to take him to Shiloh to leave with Eli the priest. 

When Hannah dedicated Samuel to the Lord, it must have been difficult for her to hold him and gaze into his little face, knowing that she would leave him in Eli's care to serve the Lord in the temple. What mother could possibly make such a promise?  

We see from the text that Hannah referred to her son's lifelong commitment to God in this way: "Therefore I also have lent him to the LORD; as long as he lives he shall be lent to the LORD."  This same Samuel would one day anoint the future King of Israel. Throughout his life David would be consecrated, confronted and consoled by the godly prophet Samuel.

Today Mothers Day is celebrated in many countries including the United States, United Kingdom, India, Denmark, Finland, Italy, Turkey, Australia, Mexico, Canada, China, Japan and Belgium. People take the day as an opportunity to pay tribute to their mothers and thank them for all their love and support. The day has become one of the busiest during the year according to the phone companies. There is also a tradition of giving flowers, cards and other gifts to mothers on the Mothers Day.  

You might also enjoy this past Mother's Day post:

 How Would You Rate Yourself As A Mom?

A Mother's Love 
There are times when only a Mother's love
Can understand our tears,
Can soothe our disappoints
And calm all of our fears. 
There are times when only a Mother's love
Can share the joy we feel
When something we've dreamed about
Quite suddenly is real. 
There are times when only a Mother's faith
Can help us on life's way
And inspire in us the confidence
We need from day to day. 
For a Mother's heart and a Mother's faith
And a Mother's steadfast love
Were fashioned by the Angels
And sent from God above. 
Author Unknown 

Happy Mothers Day! 

Enjoy your special day... Spend time with your Mom.  Enjoy your children and grandchildren. Leave a legacy that God can use for His glory!

Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together. 

Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

Calling All Mothers...

Military Dad Far From Home - Do You Know One?

There are Absentee Dads and then there are Dads that are absent…

It’s Father’s Day!  My granddaughter and I carefully put together three special gifts for her Daddy:  a cute photo frame that says “Daddy’s Little One”, a small but manly photo album with all the pictures of their last visit during Memorial Day weekend, and a handmade card featuring lots of stickers, her hand print, and other hand drawn doodles.

Our son is a military Dad.  He’s currently serving in the US Marine Corps and is stationed in Norfolk,Virginia.  He was in Quantico, Va. when our granddaughter was born, and actually flew down just in time for her birth. Those were happier days when they were here before heading off to their first duty station in North Carolina.

He is now divorced.  That has made it much harder for him to be a hands-on Dad.  Our heart goes out to him and the countless others who are in the military and stationed far from home.  Some are married, and some are divorced.  Either way – they are separated from their families and loved ones.

We are fortunate that our granddaughter’s mother still lives near us.  We see our little princess about every other weekend.  We are among the lucky few who live near their grandchildren while their sons or daughters are serving in the US military.

Many grandparents don’t get to see their grandchildren often if their service member is deployed or living overseas.  

When my Dad was in the US Navy, we were stationed overseas twice:  once in Italy and once in Cuba.  We were the exception in that our Dad’s parents visited often in both places while we were growing up in a military household.

Our son lives twelve hours away – so frequent visits aren't possible.  However, after a lengthy deployment last year of nine months he was able to stay with us for a long Christmas visit.  He and our granddaughter went to Disney World and had a blast!  Making memories and just being together is what forms a life-long bond between Daddy and daughter.  She is just 3 ½ yrs. old right now, but she definitely knows and loves her Daddy!

They do "Facetime" and laugh while being silly on my smart phone.  We often text, and send photos of ordinary things when she is with us.  We want our son to feel connected and part of her daily activities.  We take every opportunity to make him special treasures and gifts throughout the year.  I want her to know that she and her Daddy are heart-to-heart close - even when they are separated.

Just because a Dad is absent doesn’t mean he has to be an absentee parent.  Far from it – they can be as involved in their life as is possible with the help of their family.  Granted, all parties need to make an effort to make that happen – and that is why my ex-daughter-in-law and I have a good and respectful relationship.

This Father’s Day we have already spoken to our son by phone.  I know he is missing his little girl, and I am hoping he has talked with her today.  He looks forward to the next visit and I know she can’t wait to spend quality time with him soon.

Son, we’re so proud of the Dad you are.  We ask God’s blessing upon you as you navigate the path He has put before you.  Your daughter is a gift from above and I know you cherish her and your future together.

For you grandparents out there with children serving in the US military – how do you cope with the separation?  Do you have a divorced child who is overseas away from their son or daughter?  What do you do to keep that line of communication and connection intact?

This Father’s Day let us focus on the most important parent / child relationship: God’s love for mankind…  “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.” (John 3:16-17)

Our Heavenly Father desires to have a relationship with His creation.  He desires reconciliation between fathers and their children. The ultimate example is our being reconciled to Him through His Son Jesus. 

Malachi 4:6 is a wonderful picture of the pending reward of Christ’s second coming as he speaks of their relationship: “And he will turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers, Lest I come and strike the earth with a curse.”

Your Heavenly Father longs to love you, provide for, and protect you. He will never leave or forsake you. You can trust Him. He is the perfect parent now and for eternity.

Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together. 

Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

Military Dad Far From Home - Do You Know One?

Three Christmas Children's Books To Buy For Your Kids or Grandkids

Are you looking for a book for your children to read this Christmas season?  

Here are three books written by fellow John 3:16 Marketing Network authors that will not only bring a smile to their faces, but teach them timeless Christian values and lessons that will stay with them for a lifetime...

Paperback or eBook

First:
The Donkey And The King is a story of love with Christian symbolism and allegory. A donkey named Baruch longs for an easier life beyond the stable. He dreams of a life with no heavy burdens and no one to tell him what to do.

After leaving the safety of the stable, the donkey becomes lost in the wilderness, but the King sends him a friend. With his new friend, a sheep, the donkey sets out on a journey that you won't forget.

Each page is beautifully illustrated with the word "good" hidden in the artwork. Children will learn that everything works together for good to those who love the King. The Donkey and the King will warm your heart and fill you with God's unconditional love.

You can purchase the eBook and paperback versions here on  Amazon

Also, the cast of animals including Baruch (the donkey), Lowly (the pig), Much Afraid (the dog), and others in The Donkey And The King - all befriend a troubled 14 year old girl in Seventh Dimension - The Door, Lorilyn's just released YA fantasy book on  Amazon


Lorilyn Roberts is a Christian author who writes children's picture books, adult nonfiction, memoirs, and a young adult Christian fantasy series, Seventh Dimension. The first in the series, The Door, has just been published (October 2012). 

Lorilyn graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Alabama, which included international study in Israel and England. She received her Masters in Creative Writing from Perelandra College and is also a graduate of the Institue of Children's Literature.

Lorilyn is the founder of the John 3:16 Marketing Network, a network of Christian authors who are passionate about promoting books with a Christian worldview.  You can visit her Blog here .


Second:

Santa's Birthday Gift is a book that ties two holiday traditions into one inspirational tale of wonder - as Santa brings gifts to baby Jesus. The cleverly-written, rhyming book reveals Santa's adventure from toy maker to star follower -- right into the heart of Bethlehem where he meets Baby Jesus in the manger. Delivering toys to a king is a touching experience for both Santa and readers alike, as they discover where the tradition began. 

Santa makes a promise to Jesus to bring gifts to good boys and girls each year on Jesus' birthday. This delightful story is engaging and delivers meaningful lessons using recognizable nativity characters, and of course, Santa and Jesus.  Sherrill's inspiration for this book came from her granddaughter who, after hearing the Christmas story, asked, "But where's Santa?" 

Santa's Birthday Gift is available from the Cure JM Foundation website which donates 50% of the purchase price to finding a cure for JM.  To learn more about this incurable disease please watch this  YouTube video  

Sherrill Cannon is a mother of four and a grandmother of ten, and is now an Award-Winning Best-Selling Author.  She has been writing poetry since before she could write.  Her books teach children virtues like good manners and caring for others.  

A real-live Eloise, I grew up in the Willard Hotel in Washington DC (my Dad was the manager), was married and lived in Northern Virginia for twenty years where my husband and I raised our four children.  We recently celebrated our 52nd wedding anniversary, and are now retired.  We travel in our RV from the east coast to the west coast each year to spend time with our children and grandchildren.

You can purchase Sherrill's book as a paperback or ebook on  Amazon  &  visit her  Website  here

Third:

The Runaway Christmas Tree is a classic story in the making and is sure to put you in the holiday spirit. It will take you on a journey of discovery and surprise, making it a favorite for years and years to come.

The story begins when the Kent family decides to have a real Christmas tree this year and will not, in any way, settle for an artificial one. 

The family travels to Nick’s Magic Christmas Tree Grove where they can pick and chop down their very own tree. While there, they purchase a tree that they appear to be magically drawn to, but at the same time, they get a little more than what they bargained for. They wanted a real tree, but exactly how does one define “real”? That is precisely what the Kent family is about to find out! 

You can purchase this cute book on  Amazon   &  visit her  Website  here

D. Washington-Jones was born in Lena, Louisiana. She teaches business and economics courses in the Social Sciences Dept.of NSU-Natchitoches. 

The Runaway Christmas Tree is Dorothy's first book, but she has also published articles in her field. She has won various awards in education from the Police Jury, the Black Heritage Committee, the Mayor's Office and the City of Natchitoches. 

In 1994-1996, Dorothy wrote a religious column for her local newpaper. She has also written business plans and seminars. Her writing style is that of humor, self discovery and adventure.

Finally - Here is a cute Children's Christmas Poem 
to enjoy with your kids and grandkids

The Friendly Beasts

Jesus our brother, strong and good,

Was humbly born in a stable rude;

And the friendly beasts around Him stood,

Jesus our brother, strong and good.

"I," said the donkey, shaggy and brown,

"I carried His mother up hill and down;

I carried her safely to Bethlehem town,

I," said the donkey, shaggy and brown.

"I," said the cow, all white and red,

"I gave Him my manger for His bed;

I gave Him my hay to pillow His head,

I," said the cow, all white and red.

"I," said the sheep with the curly horn,

"I gave Him my wool for His blanket warm.

He wore my coat on Christmas morn,

I," said the sheep with the curly horn.

"I," said the dove from rafters high,

"I cooed Him to sleep so He would not cry,

We cooed Him to sleep, my mate and I;

I," said the dove from rafters high.

And every beast, by some good spell,

In the stable dark was glad to tell,

Of the gift He gave Emmanuel,

The gift He gave Emmanuel.

[Traditional children's Christmas carol dating from the twelfth century.]

Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together. 

Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

Three Christmas Children's Books To Buy For Your Kids or Grandkids