December 25th

Merry Christmas!

All was merry and bright here at our house today. No huge, big exciting gifts. Just lots of love, thoughtfulness, and candy.

The kids can wake us up at 7:05am. Although I was already up at 6:30 to bake the Christmas Morning Carmel Rolls. The girls had done their special surprise for the boys, decorating a mini tree with lights in their room. The boys each received a Christmas note and seom Crispy Kringle chocolates. Love that spirit of the holiday that the girls shared with their brothers.

They came downstairs to see what Santa brought for them. They each got a small box of cereal in their stocking. The boys ate theirs for breakfast. Brad made eggs and sausage, too. Then we began to unwrap the other gifts under the tree. I like to see what each person gets. Krish asked yesterday if they could just "dive in and open their presents". But I said no. Appreciation and patience.

The wind has been blowing all day. Snow fell on and off, just little flurries, nothing stuck to the ground. Was so hoping for a white Christmas.

We headed down to the Smith's for dinner about 3pm. Brad had roasted the Prime Rib. I had made deviled eggs. It was a delicious dinner and a wonderful conversation. The kids had a great time playing together. They really had fun with Just Dance Disney.

Merek was SO tired when we got back home. We played two rounds of Wits & Wagers Family and then I put him to bed. He wanted to wear the Spiderman pajamas that were now too small for Bird. We read his counting book and then I sang him his songs. My exhaustion talked me into resting next to him in his bed and we both fell asleep pretty quickly. I woke up a bit later and went downstairs. Brad, his mom, and the other kids were all watching "Brave".

About this time of the year, I reflect back on the year gone by and wonder, "how DID time go by so quickly?"

So much good has come about for me, in a very personal way. A way that I can see myself changing for the better. There are still MANY things that I need to work on, but I am feeling like there is positive changes happening. Each day when I get discouraged or frustrated, I try hard to think of my blessings and what good things I have been able to do. I see so much more good in others, especially  Brad and my kids. For that, I am extremely grateful.

Focusing on what REALLY matters in life has helped with my outlook. Trying harder to fulfill my roles as a wife and a mother. Trying to be more present when I am present. Trying to let go of things that don't really have a bigger part of the whole picture.

I am thankful for my many blessings. For my family, our home, my friends. For my faith in God, in something more that encourages me to try a little harder and be aware of more than just myself.

Merry Christmas.