'with the grace of woman, not the grief of a child'

Writers block doesn't even begin to describe what I'm going through at this moment in time. It's literally like there is a wall in between my keyboard and my brain. How frustrating!

So first things first- my nativity happened last Sunday and it was the most heart-warming, wonderful and insanely cute performance to ever take place in the history of ever. My children were shining stars as they told the story of the best and most brightest star of all- Jesus. And as their little voices echoed in to a beautiful lullaby about the saviour of the world being born, the tears began to flow. I truly believe that the innocence of a child is enough to cause such a powerful, boundless and world changing spiritual reaction. So when someone told me that a woman was so moved to tears and felt such a connection with God through that performance, it brings to life what I believe.

Thank you to my church for allowing me to be such a small but wonderful part of the Christmas story. I'll forever be touched.

Here are some snaps of the festive season in Alice Goble land-

This week I went to London (Fundon) for some drama school auditions. I am thrilled to say that I got a RECALL for the new year. Thank you Jesus!

The start of advent meant the start of the advent candle

It took us 14 days in to December; but we finally got around to putting the decs up!

The most glorious church in London. I was overwhelmed seeing so many homeless people sleeping on every pew in the church. The house of the Lord can be used in so many powerful ways.

The advent service at Salisbury Cathedral. So. Many. Lights. So. Beautiful. Help.

My Christmas wrapping has only just begun. 

The finished masterpiece of our Christmas decorations.

I wanted to write some meaningful and poetic blog about this, but I think it just speaks for itself. My sister sent me something that caused a beautiful reaction- the feeling of being understood. I've never read anything that is so close to my heart and my livelihood as these few sentences-

After a while you learn
the subtle difference between
holding a hand and chaining a soul
and you learn
that love doesn’t mean leaning
and company doesn’t always mean security.
And you begin to learn
that kisses aren’t contracts
and presents aren’t promises
and you begin to accept your defeats
with your head up and your eyes ahead
with the grace of woman, not the grief of a child
and you learn
to build all your roads on today
because tomorrow’s ground is
too uncertain for plans
and futures have a way of falling down
in mid-flight.
After a while you learn
that even sunshine burns
if you get too much
so you plant your own garden
and decorate your own soul
instead of waiting for someone
to bring you flowers.

And you learn that you really can endure
you really are strong
you really do have worth
and you learn
and you learn
with every goodbye, you learn…
Veronica A. Shoffstall

Thank you, Veronica for writing exactly what my heart was feeling.

God bless you all at this magical and reflective time of year.