Surprise Nativity!

In prior years, I've posted about my slightly insane collection of nativities.  Some people collect books, some people collect coins, and still others collect Funko Pops (no judgements, Pat).  Me?  I collect nativities.

Now when I say "Nativity," I'm not just talking about the full stable, shepherds and wisemen.  I also include those pieces that are Joseph and Mary cradling baby Jesus.  Basically any statue, painting, toy or puzzle that celebrates the birth of Jesus is a nativity in my book.

An abbreviated (VERY abbreviated) selection of my nativities.  Not pictured are my two ultra large creches that could easily take up two dining room tables (which is why they're not pictured... there's just no where to put them!):

Anywho, this year, I made it a point not to accumulate still another nativity that I won't have room to display.  I have more than a few still in my basement because there's just no place to put them at Christmas.  So I buckled down and fought every instinct within me to buy another one (or three) to appease the nativity gnomes in my heart.

Imagine my surprise, then, when I opened up the last present from my husband - the man who once jokingly asked me if "Nativities Anonymous" was a thing amongst Catholics.  I was confused at first, because it was just a little pewter piece w/ a Christmas star at the top.  It took me less than a second to realize what I was looking at and a giant smile broke out over my face.  I hurriedly opened the second package and the matching pieces tumbled out!  I was instantly in love!

Pure magic!  I was so surprised and so appreciative that my husband had thoughtfully picked out such a sweet gift.  I was doubly excited that God rewarded my self-control after all.  Ha ha!

But seriously - I love me some nativities.  But more than nativities, I love how incredibly wonderful my husband is.  Whereas my ex used to get genuinely (and irrationally) angry at my love of nativity art, Chris not only understands my maternal appreciation of this intimate Christmas moment, but indulges me because he enjoys how much happiness it brings me.

God is good, folks.  Always and in all things.  Happy Birthday, Jesus!