My Christmas tour began yesterday with two shows at the beautiful Eccles Theater in Salt Lake City. Performing in Utah is always like coming home for me, and what better way to share the Christmas spirit than with family and good friends? Besides, I think half of the audience in both shows were relatives.😂 Look how beautiful it was when everybody raised their cell phones and sang with me… it happened for both shows as we all shared the Christmas spirit. As my tour continues in Texas, Oklahoma, and Florida, I look forward to sharing the joy of Christmas with many of you. I love seeing the familiar faces I’ve known throughout the years and meeting those coming to a show for the first time. You are all friends and, yes…family to me, and I love each one of you!
Christmas is always a very special time for me. Before coming out on my Christmas tour this past week, I was getting my house all decorated for the holidays, so everything was perfect when I got home. I have collected and loved Nativity scenes throughout the years, and I am especially enjoying the beautiful hand-carved ones from olive wood that I got while in Israel this past summer. I got them from a dear man named Jimmy, who runs a shop called Jimmy’s Bazaar.
Displaying special ornaments is also a Christmas tradition in my home. Years ago, I became friends with artist Christopher Radko and collected many of his designer ornaments. Christopher sold that company and now has a new company called HeARTfully Yours. This year, I began collecting Christopher’s new HeARTfully designs, and I love them! They are made exclusively in Europe and are absolutely beautiful!!! I love having them on my tree.
Then, Thursday morning, when I woke up to get ready to head to Salt Lake, my Christmas cactus that once belonged to my mom was in full bloom💖 I’ve written in the past about my mother‘s love of the Christmas cactus, but what’s unique is that I swear it talks to me. It blooms at unique and special times throughout the year, not just Christmas! And most often, when I just need to hear from my mom. 🤭 It’s almost like she was saying, “Have a great tour, sweetheart, and remember I love you.”
It was fantastic being back on tour. It is always a wonderful experience. It reminded me of my #SundayMessage from December 5, 2021, so I am reposting that today.
Have a beautiful Sunday, and remember, you are loved!!!
Marie’s Sunday Message
December 5, 2021
It’s simply amazing to be back on tour! I love to see people laughing and enjoying themselves again at the shows, and their enthusiasm fills my heart with so much joy. “Music Is Medicine,” to coin the phrase from my last album… 😉 it really is! When I see everyone out again with their families and friends, the experience multiplies my Christmas spirit.❤️ It’s astonishingly busy being out on the road again, and each person I work with has to handle a million details. It’s why I cannot measure my love for my staff, band, and crew. I’m impressed with how professional and prepared they all are, and I appreciate their personal respect for each other because there’s no drama or ego out here… just love for what we all do together. I’m so honored to be able to work with these amazing people and recognize each of them as my road family! Also, it has been amazing that I see miracles happen every day!
During these holidays, I have been setting aside a few minutes each day to concentrate on the Savior’s birth and the important lessons He has for me. I have been praying to feel His spirit more and to know how to bless others. I know His influence is everywhere because people who don’t even believe in the Savior are being touched by the giving hearts and concerns that are being openly and lovingly shown this time of year. Just as the Wise Men followed the star to find the Savior, we will find opportunities to be in His arms when we look with our hearts.
The other night, I felt impressed to have this one particular man come up on stage. He became a fun part of my show for a few minutes. (If you have seen the show, you know what I mean.) 😉 Afterwards, Darla brought him, his wife, and a few family members backstage to say hi. They told us it was the first time they had been out since their 17-year-old son was killed in a tragic accident four weeks earlier. We shared hugs and tears as a family member said it was the first time they had seen him and his sweet wife laugh since that tragic night. There are no coincidences in life; from all the people I could have chosen, I know I was prompted to choose him. That evening offered hope, a respite to breathe, during their very difficult time. The Savior knows us and our pain. When we look for the “star,” we will find it because Christ is always there with His arms open, waiting for us to come to Him. These blessings come in many forms to bless His children here on earth. As we pray for opportunities to help serve, the promptings WILL come to us so we can act as instruments on His behalf.
Her description of how we can help locally and globally was perfect. I wrote about The Giving Machine last year. They allow us to donate a polio vaccine, personal supplies, education, and even a goat or a chicken that can feed a family with its eggs. Being a part of these miracles is so satisfying and even helps you feel a part of someone’s life. And what a great adventure for an outing with children! I love that she spoke so highly of the “Giving Machine” and its blessing. It’s now a tradition in our family, one I hope continues through the lives of my children and grandchildren.
There are so many ways to serve during the holidays, and I hope this year, more than ever, to continue to commit myself to serving all year long and keep the spirit of Christmas throughout the year. I know an attitude of gratitude and service can help bring more joy and help us enjoy the holidays even more.🥰🎄
I love you all so much!
#Happyholidays
#Sundaymessage