Happy Christmas Eve! Did you ever wonder why we make such a big deal of the day before Christmas? After all, we celebrate Cristmas because it is a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. But -- what is the celebration all about on the day before Christmas Eve?

Well, the answer is simple really. Christmas Eve is, or at least was, the day of preparation for the celebration of Christmas Day. In a much simpler time and age, before society and stores started putting Christmas stuff out in September; people used Christmas Eve to put up their tree and decorate it, and do their bakng and cooking all in preparation for Christmas, so they could celebrate Christmas as a "Holy-Day", instead of a "holiday". Then they would take the family to church or meet as families and pray and sing hymns of praise for the birth of a Savior. By Christmas morning they were spiritually and physically ready for a day of exchanging small gifts with one another as symbols of the gifts brought by the wise men, and they spent a day of sharing their love and lives with one another. --- My, how times have changed.

Around our home we have another reason to celebrate the 24th of December. Sixty-seven years ago today a beautiful young lady named Adelia went into labor to deliver her third child. That child was a little daughter; and Adelia and Sam Parton named her Katherine Louise. I call her Ms. Kate, and I thank God every day that she is the focus of my life.

We are sitting here listening to Christmas Carols and waiting for Julie, Jim, and the "rein-dogs" to arrive. We just had breakfast with my sister and brother in law and now are enjoying the pause of silence. So, I think a quick nap is in order.

With that --- I wish you a very Merry Christmas.