Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year!

Post written by Raymund and Denielle Tamayo

It has been a magical month for our family this December that we barely had the time to sit down, write, and update this blog.

We hope all of you, dear readers, are all set and ready for this coming two weeks of what we call "consumeristic frenzy." There's nothing wrong about buying material gifts (this is, anyway, the season of sharing and giving), as long as we don't focus our minds and hearts on the gifts but on the Giver.

The Giver of our life, hope, and love for one another - the Lord Jesus Christ. He really is the main reason for this season. For without His birth (although December 25 may not be really His birth date), there would be no death on the cross, and no salvation from our sins.

We have attended, so far, four Christmas outreaches and gift-giving activities (one organized by Raymund at work, one at Ryah's school, and two at chuch) and with that we also shared our time and resources. One thing we observed from all the activities were the genuine smile and happiness of all the children participating, whether they are the givers or the receivers. It was a very humbling experience, and we can't help but feel blessed and loved by their heart-warming gestures.

Oh, and another thing before we go, this Christmas let us take time to feel the wonder and joy of holy silence. Let's make time to relax, unwind, and refresh our bodies and souls. Let's make time to reflect on the year that was, and the year that is to come.

For us, we will probably say no to some good things to make room for a lot of better things. We are going to intentionally make space to think, to remember, and to be grateful for everything about life.

From our family to yours... Merry Christmas and a Blessed Prosperous New Year!

May all our hopes and dreams come true this 2013! Love, love, love!