Done. . ., and done.

What now?

Well, another round of finals are finished, now there's nothing left for Fall semester but to wait anxiously (or not so anxiously, who really cares anyway) for the grades to be posted. One more bunch of classes completed, checked off, and moved out of the way on the road to that ever elusive diploma. Ah, to be done, what will that feel like? I guess I 'll find out in April.

On a more current note. Northern Mexico is lovely this time of year. It's been 4 years since I was home in Colonia Juarez for Christmas, so I've really been looking forward to spending a couple of weeks here, especially at this wonderful time of year. Aside from the first 2 1/2 - 3 hours (driving snow, 25 mph average) the drive home was pleasant and uneventful. We (my brother Justin and I) drove all night, and arrived home around noon. Being lunch time, we just had to stop and get some tortas (awesomeness disguised as a pork sandwich) from Tortas Parra on our way through Casas. Mmmmmm, delicious.

Christmas is great. We managed to get some decorations set up in the house I live in in Provo (a tree, a few lights and ribbons) and it's just amazing how much of a difference it really makes. The whole "feel" of the place changes. I'm sure it's more than decorations, but they definitely add to the whole Christmas spirit. Speaking of which, remember that our prophet today, President Thomas Monson, has reminded us that the Christmas spirit is the Christ spirit. He is why we celebrate, He is why we have cause to rejoice, He is the One - the only One - who makes salvation possible for each of us.

What a tremendous opportunity we each have to strive to know Him better, and to become like Him. May we all remember that as we spend this season with family and loved ones.

Merry Christmas!