Yevet Tenney

Ever since the Christmas carols began to play and the lights started to sparkle on the snow, I have been thinking about the new year and the changes I would make in the coming year.I have done that since I was old enough to know about resolutions. Tradition has held me bound from more years than I care to count.

Christmas sparkle is in the air. Lights shimmer in the snow, and the stores are filled with the trappings of gifts and enticements to buy, buy, buy.Our pocketbooks grow lean and our credit card balances expand as we try to outgift our friends, family members and co-workers.

As I walk through the golden world of fall, I can’t help but marvel at the glory of God. Everything is formed with such intricate precision. Each tree and plant has the God-given power to regenerate in springtime.

I grew up with Lassie, My Friend Flicka, Bonanza and Leave it to Beaver. The silver screen was graced with Disney classics like Snow White, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty and Old Yeller.

This last month, I have been more diligent in my prayers and scripture study. I have been waking up at 4:30 in the morning and going upstairs to pray and read scriptures. No, I don’t set the alarm; my eyes just pop open, and I lay there thinking.

I just started teaching first grade again after 30 years. When I looked in the faces of those sweet children, I told them that I taught first grade many, many years ago.Some of my students became dentists, UPS drivers, teachers, loan officers and policemen.