Christmas Countdown - Day 5

I am so relieved that it is the weekend and I have time to sit back, relax, and enjoy myself after a long week at school.  It is such a good feeling to come home on a Friday afternoon knowing that 2 whole days of nothingness (or not-muchness) stretch ahead of me.  Thinking about relaxing and being restored after a long week makes me think of tonight's song - one of the most soothing Christmas songs I know.  "Away in a Manger" is probably my very favorite traditional Christmas carol just because it is so simple and sweet. I used to sing it to Luke near Christmas back in the days when I still got to rock him to sleep before bed, which brings me even more warm and happy thoughts as I think back on it right now.  I know you probably know all the words - I know all 3 verses by heart because I love this one so very much.

Away in a manger, no crib for a bed
The little Lord Jesus lay down his sweet head
The stars in the sky look down where he lay
The little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay

The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes
But little Lord Jesus no crying he makes
I love Thee Lord Jesus, look down from the sky
And stay by my cradle til morning is nigh

Be near me Lord Jesus, I ask Thee to stay
Close by me forever and love me, I pray
Bless all the dear children in Thy tender care
And take us to Heaven to live with Thee there