FORTifying Memories

My husband and I really enjoy fun dates. So, last night we made plans to watch one of our favorite holiday movies, Elf! We have made it our tradition for the past couple years and last night we put our Christmas festivities into full swing.

In the car on our way home to our date we began discussing ways to make our movie watching tradition even more spectacular. It didn't take very long before the two of us were brimming over with excitement about our new additions to tradition.


Anyone remember building forts as a kid? I am quite positive that if you had any resemblance of a happy childhood you have built a living room fort. I personally remember building quite a few. Most of them were with my little brother. Me and my brother loved building forts out of dining room chairs, sheets, and lots of pillows! We spent forever laughing and arguing in those forts and I have so many happy memories from such a simple/messy activity!

To my surprise George had tons of experience, memories, and enthusiasm about building forts! It made my little kid heart skip two beats when his eyes lit up with the mention of building a fort. He told me the very best way to construct one and his child like excitement revealed to me just how excited I am to spend the rest of my life making memories with him.

After constructing our movie watching structure, we made some absolutely delicious hot chocolate, climbed in and hit play! Unfortunately for George the image of watching Buddy the Elf trying maneuver his way around in an elf size house was quite similar to watching my tall husband try to fit in a very short fort. :)

Throughout the movie we were surprised that we still found ourselves laughing at certain parts even though we have both seen Elf almost 12 times. This definitely confirms that Elf will always be a part of our Christmas  tradition because it seriously never gets old! We cuddled all through the movie and talked about how we can't wait to build forts and watch Elf with our kids someday. We laid there in that fort long after the movie was over laughing and savoring every last drop of this one fantastic Christmas memory.

I loved FORTifying memories with my handsome husband, and I can't wait till next year to make some more!

The Unthinkable

Today, we have come face to face yet again with the evil that roams the earth.

I find myself physically sick when I imagine the scene in those Sandy Hook Elementary classrooms tonight. Those sweet and innocent little ones lay lifeless while their parents ache to hold them. I know shock is most likely easing the reality of their loss at this moment, but soon that will wear away and they will face the unthinkable...unwrapped presents this Christmas, an unfinished bedtime story, or.a high school graduation that will never come to pass.

I have no way to relate to these grieving parents. I don't have children yet so I have no idea what it is like to raise a child, to love them simply because they have a part of me no one else ever will. I haven't yet had the opportunity to have my heart stolen in just one look so I can't even begin to fathom the gaping whole that now replaces where their once whole hearts resided.

Since I first heard of the shooting in Connecticut I have hungered for details about the tragedy. Earlier today I pondered on why I was so interested in knowing everything about the events. I realized tonight that I am feeling as if by knowing every detail I can do something to avenge those children and educators...like if I learn enough about the situation I can fix the brokenness caused by one young mans actions, but I can't. I may never know Adam Lanza's reasoning in slaughtering 20 elementary age children  6 adults, and his own mother. However, I don't need to know his reasons....I only need to pray unceasingly for those who have been affected by his choices.

I strongly encourage each one of you to do the same. I also encourage those of you who have children to hold them tonight and be reminded that no number of tantrums, fits, and messes will ever make them any less of a miracle and a blessing. Tonight, take in their innocent eyes, and love them deep because you're not promised tomorrow.

John 16:33- "I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In the world you have trouble and suffering, but take courage – I have conquered the world.”

He is still reigning and working in this suffering.