3 Facts Jesus Was Not Born on December 25th!

A news story last night got a discussion going in our household over dinner: A local church has posted "Santa Is Satan" as their sign for the holidays. Their preacher stands by it, saying that Santa takes away from the glory of Jesus's birth on Christmas. 

Now, I do celebrate Christmas as the day of Jesus's birth, but as a good Christian man, he should know that Jesus was not, in fact, born on December 25th, or in the month of December at all. We have no idea what actual day Christ was born, and the Bible does not tell us. 

History convincingly shows us that December 25th was popularized as the date for Christmas, not because Christ was born on that day but because it was already popular in pagan religious celebrations as the birthday of the sun.

"Lacking any scriptural pointers to Jesus's birthday, early Christian teachers suggested dates all over the calendar. Clement picked November 18th. Hippolytus figured Christ must have been born on a Wednesday. An anonymous document, believed to have been written in North Africa around A.D. 243, placed Jesus's birth on March 28th." (Jeffery Sheler, U.S. News & World Report, "In Search of Christmas," December 23, 1996, p. 58)

Furthermore, a careful analysis of the Scripture indicates that December 25th is an unlikely date for Christ's birth.

3 Facts Jesus Was NOT Born on December 25th, AKA Christmas:

1. First, we know that shepherds were in the fields watching their flocks at the time of Jesus's birth (Luke:2:7-8). Shepherds were not in the fields during December. According to Celebrations: The Complete Book of American Holidays, Luke's account "suggests that Jesus may have been born in summer or early fall. Since December is cold and raining in Judea, it is likely the shepherds would have sought shelter for their flocks at night" (p. 309). 
• Similarly, The Interpreter's One-Volume Commentary says this passage argues "against the birth [of Christ] occurring on December 25th since the weather would not have permitted" shepherds watching over their flocks in the field at night. 
• Shepherds were/are in the fields early in March until early October, so this would place Jesus's birth in the spring or early fall. 
2. Second, Jesus's parents came to Bethlehem to register in a Roman census (Luke:2:1-4). Such censuses were not taken in the winter, when temperatures often dropped below freezing and roads were in poor condition. Taking a census under such conditions would have been self-defeating. Furthermore, it would have been extremely difficult and futile for a pregnant woman to make such a hard 70 mile trip from Nazareth in such conditions.
3. Thirdly, it is know that Jesus lived for 33.5 years and died at the feast of Passover, which is at Easter time. He must therefore have been born six months the other side of Easter - making the date around the September/October timeframe.

Given the difficulties and the desire to bring pagans into Christianity, "the important fact then to get clearly into your head is that the fixing of the date as December 25th was a compromise with paganism" (William Walsh, The Story of Santa Claus, 1970, p. 62).

If Jesus Christ wasn't born on December 25th, does the Bible indicate when He WAS born?

• The biblical accounts point to the fall of the year as the most likely time of Jesus' birth, based on the conception and birth of John the Baptist. 
• Since Elizabeth (John's mother) was in her sixth month of pregnancy when Jesus was conceived (Luke:1:24-36), we can determine the approximate time of year Jesus was born if we know when John was born. John's father, Zacharias, was a priest serving in the Jerusalem temple during the course of Abijah (Luke:1:5). Historical calculations indicate this course of service corresponded to June 13-19 in that year (The Companion Bible, 1974, Appendix 179, p. 200). 
• It was during this time of temple service that Zacharias learned that he and his wife would have a child (Luke:1:8-13). After he completed his service and traveled home, Elizabeth conceived (Luke:1:23-24). Assuring John's conception took place near the end of June, adding nine months brings us to the end of March as the most likely time of John's birth. Adding another six months (the difference in ages between John and Jesus) brings us to end of September as the likely time of Jesus's birth.
• It is also believed that Jesus's conception may have been in December of the previous year, and that his "birth" was "the word made flesh" (John:1:14), when the Father sent His only Son into the world. Which means we may actually be celebrating Christmas as the date of his immaculate conception. [Henry M. Morris, The Defenders Study Bible (notes for Luke:2:8,13)]
• Again, we do not know for sure the exact month or date of Jesus's birth, but these are some commonly accepted theories.

Now, again, we do celebrate Christmas as Jesus's birthday in our household, and my children will always know the true meaning of Christmas, to give and not receive because Christ gave the biggest gift of all for us, his life. But I also don't want them to think of Santa Claus as a act or actor of Satan because Santa is a world of magic for children that they should stay in for as long as they can, and it is a huge joy to parents to act in that joy of giving. He is a great actor of giving and not receiving, and as long as he is not lost in the commercialism of it all, he is a great promotion of what the reason for the season truly is. Merry Christmas! 

Hearty Black-Eyed Peas!

Black-eyed peas are one vegetable the guys in my house absolutely LOVE, so I gotta make 'em taste great! Here's a good, down-home way to get some veggies in your family's system!

Kyrstie's Black-Eyed Peas

Ingredients:

• 1 pound black-eyed peas
• 4-6 pieces of bacon, chopped, or real bacon bits
• Ham, chopped
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 6 cups water
• 6 teaspoons chicken bullion
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning or chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions:

1. Rinse black-eyed peas, place in a bowl, submerged in water for 8 hours (or overnight).
2. Brown bacon in hot skillet on the stove, followed by ham, and then onion.
3. Add water and chicken bullion to the slow cooker. Season broth with onion powder, garlic powder, garlic salt, Cajun seasoning or chili powder, and ground black pepper. Follow with black-eyed peas, bacon, ham, and onion. 
4. Cook on High for 4 to 6 hours.

French Dip Sandwiches!

The hubby absolutely LOVES Arby's French Dip sandwiches with their Au Jus sauce, so I decided to make them at home, and they came out amazing (if I do say so myself)! Love my crock pot!

French Dip Sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 4 pound beef roast (rump, sirloin tip, etc.)
• 1 can beef broth
• 1 can Campbell's condensed French Onion soup
• 1 packet of Au Jus sauce/gravy mix
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• Sliced Provolone or Mozzarella cheese
• 6 French rolls
• 2 tablespoons butter

Directions:

• Add beef broth, French Onion soup, Au Jus mix, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, garlic salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
• Trim excess fat from the beef roast and add to the slow cooker.
• Cook on High for 6 hours or on Low for 8 hours. 
• Remove roast from slow cooker and slice. 
• Slice French rolls and butter. Bake in the oven at 350 degrees for 3-5 minutes, or until butter is melted and rolls are toasted.
• Assemble sandwiches between sliced rolls with cheese placed on top of the meat. Serve crock pot liquid (your homemade Au Jus sauce) on the side for dipping.

Happy New Years!

Wow! 2013 has been such an incredible year for us!

We've brought two beautiful, happy, healthy babies into this world!

Anna has gone from barely being able to hold her head up to sitting to crawling to standing and now to almost walking!

 

I married my best friend this past October!

And, we have finally gotten our lives together on the right track and going in the right direction!

I'm so excited for all the potential the New Year holds for us and our little family, and I'm ecstatic to get going on all we plan to accomplish in it!

Happy New Years, everyone! I hope you're all looking back on another marvelous year and are ready to embark on a new and exciting fresh start for 2014! XOXO, Kyrstie.

8 Mommy Resolutions for the New Year!

We all tend to make major, sometimes drastic and/or borderline ridiculous, New Year's resolutions around this time of year, but I feel there are a few resolutions we can make as Mamas this year that will actually do us some good physically and emotionally and will keep us going all year long!

1. Perfection Doesn't Matter

I will embrace the fact that I'm not perfect.

You can be cranky, you can lose your patience, and yes -- you can even move the clock ahead an hour just so the kids will go to bed early and give you some peace and quiet. You don't have to bake everything from scratch, make Halloween costumes out of scraps lying around the house, or coach the soccer team. Children don't need you to be perfect. What they really need are reasonable limits, lots of hugs and kisses, and a happy Mommy. 

2. Find Time to Play

I will get down on the floor and play with my children every day. 

Babies -- and older kids too -- need regular face-to-face time with the adults in their lives. And while it can be difficult to get involved in their fantasy world -- especially when you're busy or tired -- it's vital that you do it. Why? Because play is your child's way of expressing himself, and you being there boosts his emotional intelligence. Even if the floor isn't your forte, fake and follow you little one's lead. 

3. Practice Healthy Habits

I will take care of my body.

When's the last time you put your needs first? Even if you have to force yourself, carve out 30 minutes a day, several days a week, to get some exercise (Luckily, I have a hubby who is already on top of this and just got us a gym membership with a daycare center last week! Love him!). It improves your mood, blasts far, and boosts your immune system. And we're not talking spin classes (which I now avoid after twisting my ankle on one of the spin bikes, haha!) or complicated step aerobics here -- even a simple walk around the neighborhood will do the trick. While you're at it, try to eat a balanced diet and get as much sleep as you possibly can each night.

4. Accept the Reality of Motherhood

I will learn to love the chaos.

Family life is full of unexpected turns, contagious diseases, occasional humiliations, laundry, and more work than you'll ever see an end to. It is also full of moments of great beauty, tenderness, sticky kisses, and a miracle or two. Remind yourself that children are your excuse to lower your standards. As comedian Phyllis Diller once said, "Cleaning your house while your kids are still growing is like shoveling the walk before it stops snowing."

5. Connect at the Dinner Table

I will make the family dinner a priority. 

Sure, it's easier to grab pizza and eat in front of the TV than to arrange a meal at the dinner table. But the food isn't the focus -- the family is. Sitting down with your children each night allows you to connect and talk about your day. And research has found that kids who regularly have dinner with their parents are more likely to do well in school and stay out of trouble. 

6. Don't Forget the Romance

I will focus a little more on my marriage. 

Marriage is a living thing that needs to be watered, fed, and nurtured. But raising children takes so much time and energy that chances are you see less of your husband now than you did when the two of you were dating. The solution? Hold hands whenever you can, and hire a babysitter (or enlist a grandparent) once a week, so you can spend time as a couple.

7. Stay in Touch

I will make time for my friends.

You can live without friends, but why would you want to? Setting aside just 15 minutes a day -- to send a text message, dash off an e-mail, or make a phone call -- will do more than keep you connected. That's because friendships not only nurture you emotionally, they also help you combat stress by allowing you to blow off a little steam -- which in turn may actually lower your blood pressure.

8. Appreciate the Little Things

I will remind myself daily that time with my children is precious.

In just the past year, I've watched my baby girl go from a newborn who needed me for everything to an independent almost toddler who is borderline walking and wants to play and do on her own, and I'm about to watch it all over again with Little Man.

Motherhood never ends -- but childhood does. You have a tiny baby, you blink, and suddenly there's a 3-year-old standing in front of you, announcing, "I'm big now." The magic years are unbelievably brief, and every day that little girl or boy is changing and growing, edging a little closer toward the door. Remember the essence of parenting isn't in the milestones, but in the everyday moments. So stop, pay attention, and make sure you celebrate them every chance you get.

Baby Chayton Is Here!

We're home safe and sound, and little Anna and baby Chayton celebrated their first Christmas yesterday! 

The 20th was a long, long day, but at the end of it, we finally had our gorgeous baby boy in our arms!

Our induction was scheduled for 5:30 AM on December 20th, but in true Christmas-baby style, when we arrived at the hospital that morning, there was no room for us at the inn. 

They finally got us in there around 4:30 that afternoon, and we were already exhausted by that point because we, of course, weren't able to get any rest when we went back home for waiting for that phone call. My doctor broke my water around 5:30 PM (she just wanted to start Pitocin, so it wouldn't be so fast, but I was ready to get the show on the road), and by 9:15, I was at 6 cm without any Pitocin. Once they started that though, things got crazy (I didn't really think I needed it to begin with). The contractions got so strong and so close that I couldn't even come down to breathe!

I called for an epidural, and the time it took for the anesthesiologist to get from his house to my room felt like an eternity. By the time he got it in my back, I was ready to push. It was time! Though the nurse said it was just the baby moving down, I instinctively knew what that feeling meant. So, while she took her sweet time calling in my doctor, who was also at home, I fought to hold back the incredible urge to get our baby out. By the time my doctor got into my room, pulled back the blanket, and I helped her get my feet into the stirrups, in one push, Little Man was here and in my arms! They said that if I hadn't taken the time to get the epidural, my doctor probably would've missed it!

At 10:41 PM on December 20th, Chayton Mitchell arrived weighing 6 pounds 12 ounces and 19 1/2 inches long!

Joseph was so attentive and supportive, and I am so very glad we had such an intimate experience alone together. Our baby boy is strong, healthy, and eating like a champ! We're so glad to finally have our Christmas miracle here with us!

Things I Want To Teach My Son Before He Is Grown!

I recently shared the things I wish to teach my daughter before she is grown, but as mothers, there are also so many lessons that we need to be teaching our sons. How else will they understand women and how we work? Haha! Daddy can teach them how to be a good man, but it is our job to show them just how important being a good man truly is and the doors that can be opened in life because of being this way. Mamas should teach their boys that they don't have to be macho all the time and that it's okay to have feelings too. I absolutely adore you, my baby boy!

These are a few things I want to teach my son before he is grown:

1. Shake hands with those you meet. Make it a firm handshake. It gains respect.
2. Always say, "ma'am," "sir," "Mr.," and "Mrs." It absolutely gains respect.
3. Whether you're big and burly or tall and lanky, don't make a body builder your idol. You don't have to look like a wrestler to be attractive. Be comfortable in your own skin.
4. Look presentable and put-together, tuck in your shirt, and wear a belt, even if you're just going to the grocery store.
5. The benefit of the doubt is sometimes the best gift we can give to others.
6. There will always be bullies in life. Stand up for yourself, and make good friends who are willing to back you up. 
7. Boys need best friends too. Find a good one who will be there for you, support you in bettering yourself and making good decisions, doesn't use you for rides or ask you for money all the time, and will always have your back (not stab you in it). 
8. If a girl isn't kind to you, she will never be. No matter how pretty she is, girls can use you. You are NOT an ATM.
9. Girls love a man who smells good. Pick a good cologne.
10. No means no. Always. Never push it further.
11. A kiss is something you earn. And you can always ask first. It's respectful and definitely a nice touch. 
12. Go out of your way to learn her likes, wants, needs, and dreams. Build your dates and outings around them. Always ask questions about her. Girls LOVE that!
13. Hold the door open for a lady (young or old) ...anyone before or after you works too. All of them. At home. In public. And especially the car door.
14. Pull her chair out for her. Get her coat for her. 
15. Have good hygiene. Take a shower, wash your face, comb your hair, brush your teeth, and please use deodorant. And by shower, I don't mean dousing yourself in body spray.
16. I will probably be pretty tough on and critical about any girl you bring home. You're still my baby boy. The only one I will ever have. And she BETTER be good to you. ...If you don't feel comfortable introducing her to mom and dad, that should be a sign.
17. Women don't understand that men are problem-solvers above all else and don't see the need to talk about things. Please bare with us.
18. Realism is something your Daddy will teach you, but never lose that childlike outlook on life.
19. Don't take life too seriously. Laugh at yourself.
20. I don't expect you to be perfect. We all make mistakes. Just make sure to learn from them and try not to make the same ones over and over again.
21. Being articulate and a good writer is not feminine. It is respected. 
22. Girls love smart, cultured boys who they feel they can have an intelligent conversation with. 
23. Determination is great. Just make sure to pick your battles wisely, and know when to let it go.
24. Don't be afraid to get dirty. It's manly.
25. If you take care of a good pair of cowboy boots, they will last for years.
26. Be a role model for boys younger than yourself. 
27. You will never be able to control what others think of you. Let it go.
28. Take people under your wing. Invite a boy who is new or shier than yourself into your social group.
29. Say, "please" and "thank you."
30. Work hard at everything you do.
31. Use your table manners.
32. Always offer a lady (and even an older gentleman) your seat.
33. Show respect to others, especially your elders. 
34. Don't curse. Especially not around me.
35. Be honest. Keep your word. It's all you have.
36. Always make eye contact. 
37. Stand up straight. You are worth it.
38. Read books ...often.
39. Have a romantic sensibility. Show it.
40. Stay away from gossip. Yes, boys can get wrapped up in gossip too. 
41. Stay humble. 
42. Choose good company with those who are a good influence. Peer pressure is one of the hardest things you will ever encounter.
43. Talk about your thoughts and feelings. Don't bottle them up inside. 
44. Never let fear hold you back.
45. You will probably get your heart broken (and just wait 'til I get my hands on her). Don't let that stop you from giving your heart to someone better. She could be the one. 
46. You don't always have to be completely independent. Don't be afraid to ask for help. 
47. Learn to cook, do your own laundry, and take care of your home. Ladies adore it!
48. There will be ups and there will be downs in life. Hold on, it will get better.
49. Saying you're sorry isn't a sign of weakness.
50. Explore and appreciate nature.
51. Show compassion to others and their situations.
52. Be grateful for those you love and all you have. Show that appreciation.
53. Don't be afraid to try new things. 
54. Be creative. Build something with your own hands. Learn to play the guitar. Have a hobby. Have a passion. 
55. Be passionate about everything you do.
56. Do some of the grunt work. No matter how educated you are or how much money you have.
57. Be active in your own life. Don't let it pass you by.
58. Everything you do has a consequence. Actions early in life WILL affect you later in life.
59. Don't ever forget where you come from. Always take time for family. 
60. Sex is worth the wait for the right person. I promise.
61. Take criticism gracefully and learn from it.
62. Have good sportsmanship. No one wins every time.
63. Be strong but don't forget to be tender.
64. Remember that I women can do anything you can do. Don't ever tell her different.
65. Bring her/send her flowers. For no reason at all is as good of a reason as any.
66. Never stop calling your wife "beautiful" and "baby." Never stop dating and courting her. Never stop giving her affection and pining for hers.
67. Never take for granted a woman who takes care of you. Tell her she is appreciated, and do for her as well. Do the dishes (even if she says she's got it), rub her feet, etc.
68. Romance isn't just sex. It's a kiss before you leave in the morning, holding her hand in the car, holding her in your arms when she cries, protecting her honor, and telling her how much you care every time you get the chance.
69. Say, "I love you." It doesn't make you less of a man.
70. Shopping isn't that bad!
71. Know how to work on your own car and fix your own house.
72. Even if you don't accept them, learn about other cultures and ways of thinking.
73. See the best in others.
74. Real women do NOT look like Victoria Secret models.
75. Forgive ...and forget. Bitterness only hurts YOU.
76. Be a leader, not a follower.
77. You don't have to fit in. You are your own man, and people will respect that.
78. I am always on your side; especially when it doesn't feel like it.
79. We will ALWAYS be proud of you.
80. Fight for what you stand for and what you believe in.
81. Don't be afraid to cry. It's good for you, and you aren't expected to be macho ALL the time.
82. You will never be too old for me to hold you.
83. Go big, even if it means failing big. Especially then.
84. Be the friend you wish you had.
85. Bodily functions are not to be shared with everyone, and "dutch ovens" are NEVER funny.
86. If you expect to meet a lady, make sure you are a gentleman.
87. I will always stand up for you, no matter what the situation or who it's against.
88. Respect pregnancy and childbirth, and remember that being a Stay-At-Home Mom deserves just as much respect as going to work every day.
89. I'm more interested in your growth than your happiness.
90. I will move mountains when you hurt. And I will always come when you call.
91. Challenge yourself. Strive to be your best. Never just skate by and do what is expected of you. Exceed everyone's expectations every chance you get.
92. The truth is always better than a lie, no matter how bad it hurts.
93. The truth will always find its way to the light.
94. Give your wife all your heart. It's worth the fear of letting go.
95. Don't ever go to bed angry. Each day is a new start.
96. Let your wife carry you through the hard times. Clinging to her isn't weakness; she already knows how strong you are.
97. Always finish what you start.
98. Think before you speak. Make sure you say what you mean and that your words mean something.
99. Speak kindly of your loved ones, and show respect to them in public. Keep any arguments behind closed doors.
100. Listen when others talk. You might learn something.
101. Don't judge. You never know what someone else is going through.
102. Say, "I love you" every time you leave someone or get off the phone with someone. It may be the last time you ever see them or talk to them.
103. Make your marriage and your wife your priority, above all else.
104. You're the most brave when you're the most scared, yet keep going anyway.
105. Never let someone tell you your worth or make you feel less that what you are.
106. Patience is never wasted.
107. Love fights for what belongs to it.
108. The only thing holding you back from accomplishing your goals and dreams will be yourself.
109. You only get one chance at an education. Take advantage of it, and don't squander it.
110. Trust your gut. Your head and your heart can lead you astray.
111. Listen to your father's teachings. He knows what he's talking about, and he's a good man. He's been there. He was young once too.
112. Control your temper.
113. Stay fit, and always make your health a priority.
114. Never stop learning and striving to learn, whatever it may be.
115. Protect women. Help them out (carry the groceries, get the can off the top shelf, etc.)
116. Watch over those who are younger and weaker than you.
117. Joke around and laugh whenever you can. It's good for you.
118. You don't need drugs, alcohol, or cigarettes to have a good time. 
119. Don't ever disrespect a women (and don't you EVER do it around me).
120. Don't settle for a spouse. Wait for the right one to come along. And make sure she is your best friend.
121. Be careful about engaging in friendships with women who are not your wife.
122. Be extremely careful about giving out or loaning money. People WILL take advantage of you.
123. Be a good provider for your family, but make sure to save some time FOR your family. 
124. Wear sunscreen ...and a hat. Trust me.
125. Take OFF your hat when you go inside.
126. Wait until everyone at the table has been served before eating.
127. Take a compliment. Don't let me hear you say, "Mmm-hmm."
128. Please trust my advice on women. I am one after all.
129. You have been given great gifts and talents. Use them and nurture them.
130. Know you are always loved. No matter what.
131. Please don't ever stop giving me kisses. And call me every once in awhile.
132. You can ALWAYS come home.
133. Always be your best self. Your best will always be good enough. 
134. Do for others any time you can.
135. Nothing could ever make me love you less.
136. I will never be tired of being your mother.
137. You will always be my baby boy and the greatest gift from God.