I know that it has been a while since I have been here...
and that I said I wasn't going to power through December...
but
I did just that.
I am guilty again of
just trying to get through
and keep my head above water
without too much cursing and crying,
without resorting to pushing and shoving
while shopping
or bursting in tears while wrapping present.

And yet,
again, when Christmas Eve got here,
and the stores were all closed,
I suddenly felt myself slow down.
I could breathe.
Whatever was not done
was just not going to get done
and that's that.
And the world would continue on.
And chances are, people will not even notice whatever
details it is that I thought I had missed.

We spent Christmas Eve with my husband's family
where there is always wine and Christmas carols being sung
and little ones and laughter.
Then, we had the typical family singalong on the drive home that included
"total eclipse of the heart" (twice) and rage against the machine.
Opened our Christmas pajamas (including some for the pug, of course)

and went to bed.

Christmas Day was perfect.
We got up early and finished the final touches while heating up meat pie for breakfast.
The kids got up and we ate first (first time we have ever done that!)
and then stockings and presents.
Had a nap.
Then out to my parents for the second part of the day
where there is always dart guns and balloon popping,
lots of chaos and yelling and loads of laughter.
Coloring books and new crayons,
gift wrap flying.
I love Christmas. I really, really do. :)
And this video...well...this is one of the reasons I love it (and my family) so much.

next up:
new year's resolutions and S's birthday...a new years eve wedding and play rehearsals...
getting ready for 2016.
:)