Hello Lovelies,
Well, it has been awhile. I'm sorry about that. I seem to have all these thoughts go through my head of what I intend to blog about while I am driving or falling asleep, but they are all but gone when I find a chance to sit at the computer.
I have had a lot on my head lately. This time of year is such a win/lose time for me. I LOVE christmas. My kids' excitement, visiting with family and friends, the beautiful decorations and, of course, the baking. Even though it all sounds wonderful, I do find it stressful too. Mainly financially. Don't get me wrong, we are not the 'over the top' foolish spenders. We don't spend what we don't have, and certainly don't purchase gifts on credit. I can only imagine what sort of stress it would add to open all those credit card bills in January! Thanks, but no thanks. We do have 3 kids though, and of course I want to see them light up when they discover Santa DID know what they were thinking. Obviously, it adds up though. My family does an 'adult draw' where each adult draws another's name and buy's a gift (within a limit) for them. I like that idea, and it seems to work well and provokes thoughtful gifts. So, even though I feel I am in control of what we spend, it is still and unavoidable cost to an already tight budget. Of course, it is going to happen. We will manage. We always do. Just wish it could be complete enjoyment for once, without all the annoying 'real life' issues spoiling it!
On another note.....a person can't stay stressed long when they are blessed with 3 amazing kids. I fall in love with them all over again on a daily basis. To have Lane randomly shout out 'love you Mama' or say 'hug me' or 'cuddle me' at any given time throughout the day makes my heart swell and melt. To see what a thoughtful, kind, confident and beautiful young woman Madison is becoming brings me such pride. Lauren becoming such her own person, a blossoming student and good friend to so many is about as good as it gets. To have them all scramble for a blanket and pillow and cram themselves on the loveseat with Brad and I for 'family movie night', leaving the larger couch empty fills me with such contentment and joy it makes life's little stress' seem pretty insignificant. After all, they, WE are life. All that matters. All that we need.
Smiles, Be well,
Crystal
