Happy New Year!

I have really enjoyed the time that my kids had off school this year! There are some times that I dread it, knowing that I won't get the things done that I want to, but this year It was a much needed break for everyone. Craig even took a few days off during the week so we could go shopping or just go to lunch as a family. It was so nice!

Christmas was great! It was so relaxing! I hear some people say how hectic it was & I am so glad ours wasn't like that. We had a more simple Christmas this year & I loved it. I didn't feel like we opened presents all day long. Our breakfast was ready by the time we finished with gifts, then I fell asleep in the recliner around 11am while the kids played around me. We went to my In-laws for dinner, so I didn't have to cook much or do much clean-up. We got home around 8pm which wasn't too late either.

I really enjoyed the day. Craig & I decided to not do too much for each other. We are purchasing a large Greg Olsen picture to go above our fireplace, so we wanted to keep it simple for each other. I have a few 'Willow Tree' figures & he bought me the one of the couple dancing. I have always wanted that one, but never said anything about it. We met at a dance, so It has always meant a lot to me, but he didn't know that. It must have meant something to him too. I cried when I opened it. He also picked out some jewelry for the kids to get for me. It was nice.

My mom & dad also sent us a sketch of a mother holding a baby. I have always loved that picture. It has been hanging in their bedroom for as long as I can remember. I have asked her where she got it before to see if I could get one. So, I cried when I opened that too. I don't know what my problem is........It seems like it was a very thoughtful Christmas for me.

Well, our 'Secret Santa' didn't work as planned.....There was a foot of snow out & we had heavy things to take to the porch, so we pulled up to the house instead of hiding the car. We were going to sneak everything up onto their porch & the kids came running out of the house! They were so excited! No surprise this year, just a good feeling of helping someone in need. It was still great to do, just not as planned.

I'm still thinking of a New Years' resolution......Every year it seems to be the same-to lose weight! Sad, I know. This year, I just want to be healthier. There will be a lot going on, so I thought if I just stayed healthy that would be a good goal. More veggies, less sitting around, you know?

Well, we got a new camera for Christmas from the in-laws! It is so nice. Craig isn't so impressed with the pink color, but it works great! I love it! I'll post pics later. I don't feel like it right now. Besides, the kids go back to school on Monday, & I think we're going to play 'Candyland' right now! Happy New Year!