Alice Benton's Blog

Sunday, December 25, 2011

Happy Birthday Jesus!

Happy birthday, Jesus! And, let me say Merry Christmas to all of you! Let's all take time to remember what God has done for us. It's truly a joyous day filled with ultimate love for everyone.

Join me today in not only celebrating family and presents, but the love of Christ. I'll be praying and giving thanks before anything is unwrapped. I will also be mindful of what today is really about because the reason for Christmas is so important.

How you choose to honor the Lord can manifest in many ways. The how doesn't really matter just as long as you do it. Pause and be gracious. Fill your mind with holy facts and carry them with you throughout your day.

Merry Christmas!


*Posts you may enjoy:

Holiday Focus
Raise Up
The Gift Of People
When Christmas Came Early

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Merry Christmas!

Alice Benton's Blog wishes you a very merry Christmas! While I sincerely hope that you received everything you wanted, know that you have everything you need. Remember the Christ in Christmas and enjoy your holy holiday!

God bless & enjoy!

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Saturday, December 24, 2011

What If...

What if you woke up tomorrow and there were no presents? You didn't receive any gifts and couldn't afford to buy anyone anything? What if that Christmas tree you treasure was destroyed? And, your favorite holiday music that put you in a jolly mood was unavailable?


I asked my niece these questions and she said, "That would upsetting, but we should still have a celebration."

I asked, "Why?"

My niece answered, "Christmas is about Jesus' birth. The other stuff is extra."


The point is simple. If you were blessed enough to wake up and have "extra" thank God. And, praise His holy name. Regardless of your particular situation show thanks for the birth of Christ. Remember He is the reason for this season.

Happy holidays and have a merry Christmas!


*Posts you may enjoy:

God Is In Control
My Lord
'Tis His Season

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Friday, December 23, 2011

Holiday Focus

As the year comes to a close, friends have told me their thoughts are all over the place. They're trying to deal with holiday tasks, but instead, Christmas is handling them. Some are lost in a sugary candy cane heaven, while others have mentioned end of the year woes. They try to move on, but haven't been able to really focus on what's next.

I admit, it is extremely easy to get lost among the trees and mistletoe along with long lines at the store. Sure, you can embrace it to a point, but too much focus on presents and parties can leave anyone troubled.

Have fun, but don't forget the holy part. Remember not to submerge yourself into the splendor of it all this time of year. Yes, the children can still dream of sugar plums. And, mom can lock lips with Santa, but it shouldn't end on that note. Share Jesus, encourage giving and spread joy. Also, make sure you spend time with those you love.


*Posts you may enjoy:

Autumn's Five Seasons: The Men
Christmas Spirit
January 2012
Under A Week To Go!

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Monday, December 19, 2011

Under A Week To Go!

With less then a week left before Christmas, your schedule has probably become worse than usual. You have all of your usual things to do, plus various trips to the mall. How will you get all of this done?

Being slightly overwhelmed can be typical at this time of year. Be determined not to get stressed. Focus on the real reason for the season and remember to pray. Don't be plagued by holiday blues, instead, embrace all that is beautiful and holy about it.

Approach each task as if it were the only one. Space things out and tackle them separately. Simply do things to the best of your ability in order to optimize success. Also, do yourself a favor and remember you're alone. Utilize trusted friends and family that are willing!


*Posts you may enjoy:

Kindness Of Family
No Disappointments
The Gift of People

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Sunday, December 18, 2011

Christmas Spirit

As Christmas celebrations pop up all over town, we begin to think about family and the importance of the holidays. Traditions are both shared and made. Relatives are remembered while friends are included in loving rituals.

This season brings forth a familiar joy. It strengthens bonds and recaps old fashion ways. It is during this time that we remind ourselves that it is important to give. The holiday spirit is also infamous for spreading a great message--peace on earth.

Make this Christmas more special than ever. Remember what it's about and give of yourself. Also, enjoy what the holiday has to offer because you're important too. Spread love!

Happy holidays!

*Posts you may enjoy:

Gift Suggestions
Christmas' Reason
'Tis His Season

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Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Emotional Roller Coaster

As the end of the year swiftly approaches, many of us are involuntarily held hostage on an "emotional  roller coaster." This ride would clearly be an awesome thriller if it didn't yank you back and forth through life. There are times when we throw up our hands and willing thrust ourselves onto what feels like the ride from hell. And, yes...I've been there. But I say no more!

Emotion can be a beautiful thing. It shouldn't be wasted on a ride that you probably wouldn't go on, if it were in your favorite amusement park. Let's face it, everyone doesn't like a heart racing roller coaster! So, save your feelings for something that's worth it. Be productive and don't accept negativity to come.

Tell yourself this year will be different. You may have sad moments, because you're human, but that's it; limit them to minutes. Refuse to dive into the "pool of sorrow" head first. I say avoid that pool completely, but you can't see your way out of it change your perception. Perhaps, a happy cannan ball that disrupts the bad flow, instead a dive. Seek happiness and bless others with it when you find it.


*Posts you may enjoy:

Christmas' Reason
No Disappointments
Prayer

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Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Gift Suggestions

Choosing a gift can be a pain for many during the holidays. It's often difficult to pick out what is best regardless of the person. Don't get lost in the gift-giving realm without any helpful hints from Santa. I always suggest listening to the person you want to be thrilled, but if that isn't you don't panic. Below I have listed a few affordable suggestions that would make most happy.

For women, take a look at this gift guide for women by realsimple.com. They have many suggestions, but my favorite is the long pair of gloves from gap. They're a must have accessory and extremely adorable. Every lady needs gloves like these.

This year keep it simple with your men ladies. Give him a planner. I must admit, I saw a version of this idea on abc's, General Hospital. They type varies with the man from a pocket planner to an engraved business padfolio, but it's great when done right. Once you've matched the right kind to your man, fill it with sentimental dates to remember. I'd also throw in a few promised dates as well.

When it comes to children the individual will greatly affect what you're willing to give them. So generally speaking, I like to think of the child both individually and age wise. If they are infants or toddlers consider how the item feels. You can also ask the parents what they would like for their child.

I like things like rag dolls, stuffed animals and blankets for toddlers. Older children might want to play around in a Color Me Castle or Dollhouse. Give the teen in your life a gift card from American Express, Visa, etc. for a denomination that your comfortable with, not them. They can use it like money and they get to pick out what they want.

Well, that's all I have. I hope it works out...let me know.


*Posts you may enjoy:

Christmas' Reason
Buying The Perfect Gift
Kindness Of Family
Where Can I Get Beauty in Pain?

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Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Christmas' Reason


Christmas has been a magnificiant holiday throughout the years. It's easy to get carried away with all the commercial hype of it. Let's face it, the concentration on obtaining joy makes us feel elated.

Why shouldn't we feel good? I'm certain God intended for us to be happy. I don't think that's questionable, but how we go after it is vital. True joy cannot be purchased and that is what needs to be taught to our children.

There's nothing wrong with Christmas splendor, if it is kept in perspective. The coming of the Lord is what we're celebrating! Stories of baby Jesus should fill your home. Enjoy yourself, but remember Christ before Santa and spread love.


*Posts you may enjoy:

A Month Before Christmas
God Is Love
Reach For Him

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Saturday, November 26, 2011

When Christmas Comes Early

When Christmas comes early consider yourself blessed. It simply means that the coming of the Lord was quickened in ways, just for you. Show praise in recognition of your miracle received.

You may have blatantly asked for something while in prayer. Or pitifully suggested what you knew you wouldn't get only to see it delivered. One thing is certain, God is listening. He knows exactly what you need and when its best time to arrive.

Keep talking to your Father. Express yourself in all the ways you thought you couldn't. Let Him know how you feel. You may not get all that your looking for but you will receive what you need. Remember that God's timing is always perfect.


*Posts you may enjoy:

God Is In Control
Prayer
Reasons to Love Beauty in Pain
Reach For Him

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Wednesday, November 23, 2011

A Month Before Christmas


A Month Before Christmas


Twas the month before Christmas 
You prayed all through night
Only faith lingered
No hope was in sight
Along came a feeling
As certain as air
Things would work out 
Because Jesus is here
You didn't know how
And were not concerned
Because God works wonders
A fact you have learned
So fill up your heart
With love and some glee
Because God has all answers
Christ is with thee

By  Alice Benton


*Posts you may enjoy:


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