Snow Snow Snow SNOW!!!!

Well, it must officially be Christmas Time, because I spent the dreaded time out in that white flaky stuff blowing the snow off the driveway today. I have to say, however, that despite coming in the house soaking wet and smelling like the inside of a gas tank, I somewhat enjoyed my time outside pushing the snow around. There's nothing like being outside with white all around, listening to nothing but the sound of the shovel against the driveway, and just appreciating the beauty that is winter (don't quote me on that in a month or so when I'm complaining about the cold, dark season though). 

The first part of winter is one of my favorite times of the year. I think that's mostly because the snow is accompanied by Christmas carols, brightly colored lights, and stories of people helping one another. Last Monday, I had the opportunity to perform in and help out a little with a benefit concert for the Christmas Box House (for those of you that don't know, the Christmas Box House is a sort of safe haven for abused and abandoned children). It really touched me to see the generosity of people! All of the performers paid a fee to help pay for the facility, so most of the ticket sales went to CBH. We sold $400 in tickets at the door (in addition to all of the kids' pre-sold tickets), and then we stood outside the doors after the concert with tins, where we collected another $1000!!! In fact, one man plopped two folded fifties into my tin!

My Singles' Ward has a tradition of adopting a family or two for a Sub-For-Santa. This year, despite all of the economic hardships and everything, my ward (that is made mostly of students) raised almost $5,000 for two families! I haven't had the chance to participate in the shopping and wrapping, but I'm SO excited to help deliver the presents to these families that are in need of a Christmas. I'm so happy to see all of this generosity all around me; it's been such a great example. THIS is what Christmas is all about!