" Goodness... and a Goodie "

This beautiful painting is done by Greg Olsen and the poem was written by him too...

~~~" The Spirit of Christmas "~~~

By the magical light of a small Christmas candle a little old man tries to carefully handle
The small porcelain manger which serves as a bed for the wee baby Jesus to lay down his head.

In wonder he brings the manger up to his view, smiles at the baby and whispers, "I love you!"
I love you for bringing this season of joy, I love you for growing to a man from a boy;

For being our light and leading the way, for being the spirit which makes Christmas day!

You've been my mentor, my model, my hero and guide, please continue to help me and stay by my side.
I've tried to follow your teachings and give as you gave, reminding all to be kind and that it's wise to behave.
Help me to serve others and bring then your light, especially the children, please bless them tonight!
Some have so very little, scarce food for their table, you know how it feels-you were born in a stable!
Bless all their mothers and fathers with a knowledge that's sure, the best gifts they can give is their love.. strong and pure.
Thats the spirit of Christmas when alls said and done, God's gift of love, that came as his son!

Then back to his mother the child is returned the nativity glows as the candle is burned.
In a wink the little old man slips quietly away...
Some say he goes up the chimney and climbs in a sleigh.
Whatever the case, His mission is clear..
Give unto others, bringing love and good cheer.
He flies into the night and bids us adieu-
doing for others what Jesus would do.
~~~~~~

" All I Need to Know About Christmas I Learned From Santa Claus "

*Believe in Magic*

*People love you when you're jolly*

*Everybody loves surprises*

*The more you give, the more you get*

*You can never have too many toys*

*There is a little child in each of us*

*If you're going to pout, you better watch out*

*A few extra pounds keep you warm in the winter*

*Wear red and get noticed*

*It's a Wonderful Life*
~~~~~

I love to make these at Christmas time, they make a delish gift to give to friends and neighbors too...bet you can't eat just one!
~~~~~

"Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake"

Place 24 Vanilla Wafers flat side down in paper cup cake liners in 2 muffin pans.

Beat together til smooth;
2 packages (8oz.) Cream Cheese, softened
1 Cup (8 oz.) Sour Cream
1 1/4 Cup Sugar

Add;
1/2 Cup Baking Cocoa
3 Eggs
1/2 to 1 tsp. Almond extract ( or)
1 tsp Vanilla

Fill muffin lined cups 3/4 full

Bake at 325* for 20-25 minutes
Cool on rack-then refrigerate to cool

Top with a scoop of Whipped cream (or Cool Whip)
And a scoop of Cherry Pie filling (or a maraschino cherry)
Serve or put on a cute plate to give!
~~~~~~~~~~~~

I am so enjoying this Christmas season with all it's many joys...I hope you are too.
This year, I'm going to try my best to keep all the good going right through the next year too!
Why leave it all behind us, only to try to find it next December...I'm holding on to all this love and joy! I think if I keep my heart filled with love for others and give and serve, it can remain with me, all year round!

I hope you have enjoyed your visit here today...Have a wonderful Christmas season my dear friends!