On Christmas Eve, I received a phone call that provided proof of how busy this fall has been. The portrait studio called to remind me that I could pick up my pictures. “You must have the wrong person” was my first reply. After a couple of confirmation questions, I realized they were talking about Zach’s birthday pictures that we had made the first week of September. I honestly had completely forgotten about them. If you know me or have seen the inside of my house or even “enjoyed” my wordless Wednesday post you realize, I love pictures, to completely forget about pictures is not something I would normally do. We just have stayed extremely busy with all kinds of activities.\u00a0 This phone call proved what I had already decided to do for Christmas, enjoy some quiet relaxing non busy time at home.<\/p>\n
I am glad to report that this has been a success. The plan for today is a little shopping and dinner with friends but in reality if I ended up at home until time for dinner so be it.<\/p>\n
Christmas Eve was spent catching up on some chores and make breakfast for the next several morning. Amanda and Scott arrived at noon, some opening of presents and a quick trip to Walmart, resulting in all the kids enjoying new toys for an hour. My dad called and we left to go over for my family celebration. It was fun and relaxed with lots of laughing and some more gifts. I can’t forget the traditional game of Rook, that was won by myself and my brother!\u00a0 The kids were exhausted and all asleep early by 7:45pm.<\/p>\n
Christmas Day was even less eventful. We did awake early, Santa had arrived! Another area that has been successful this year is we greatly scaled down Christmas. The little kids received one gift from Santa; \u00a0Zach a drum set and headphones, Kendall and Lily both American girl dolls. Stockings had candy only. In addition, each had 2 additional presents from us, one from Grandpa Abbott and one from Aunt Deanna under the tree. But the lack of 6-10 gifts a piece was not noticed. We had a quick easy breakfast of bagels with the entire morning spent playing with the toys. The little kids have been the most engaged and happy I can remember. Amanda is working today but checked in this morning and Haley stayed till breakfast. She has spent the rest of the day celebrating with her Dad’s family. Everyone, well except Matt, stayed in pajama’s all day and alternated playing together and alone.<\/p>\n
I can honestly say this has been one of the best most relaxing Christmas’s in memory.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
On Christmas Eve, I received a phone call that provided proof of how busy this fall has been. The portrait studio called to remind me that I could pick up my pictures. “You must have the wrong person” was my … Continue reading