Our Christmas Tree 2008

Christmas 2008

Another Christmas Season is behind us... well almost behind us, there are still remnants of Christmas decorations, opened gifts that haven't found a home, oh and the Christmas tree is still prominently displayed in all its grandeur. But besides that, Christmas is "almost" behind us. We had a very relaxing Christmas Holiday this year (even though I wasn't able to get away from work). We started with a cookie bake with Lisa and Kyle Broesch, on Dec. 23rd, Rich, Bekah and I went to Disney for the day. We had a great time visiting all the places, eateries and rides that we enjoyed as kids. "Gotta have a pineapple whip... you know from the place across from Swiss Family Robinson Tree House!" We also enjoyed the Christmas decorations, the lights and holiday performances. We jumped on the monorail from Magic Kingdom to Epcot so we can visit the Countries and see their holiday decor. We bought candy in Italy, listened to Santa in Canada and ate a hot dog in America all in one day. We then made our way back to the Magic Kingdom to see Cinderella's Castle light up! It has been a few years, many in fact, since we have been to Disney. We enjoyed the day, taking our time strolling through the park, taking pictures and enjoying each other's company. Christmas Eve was a Mexican Fiesta! Fred, Amy, Katie and Lauren invited us over for a fiesta, we had maracas, sombreros, fajitas, burritos, Mexican decorations to set the mood. We even played "Pin the tail on the donkey" of which Rich proudly won a sombrero wearing rubber ducky. When we got home, Rich and I finished up the wrapping (yes, we were still wrapping) and Rich finished working on his "surprise" for Bekah.

Then alas it was Christmas Day, the gifts were presented beautifully under tree. Rich's surprise was dressed magnificently next to the tree.... okay, so here's the story on the surprise. Bekah was sharing with us how she loved the way we "presented" gifts under the tree. She loved the Presentation! When she was little, presentations were easier to do, we always left one big gift unwrapped under the tree. Whether it was a baby doll or skateboard with all the accessories, the presentation of the gift meant a lot to her. So this year, I asked Rich to make a manikin of sorts! As a teenager, the gifts are usually clothes or electronics, and such which makes it a little more difficult for the big presentation. Clothes laying out on the floor just isn't the same, that happens after Christmas! So Rich built a manikin out of 2X4s and a sign. My resident MacGiver. We dressed the manikin with Lucky Jeans, a sweater and a wrap and hat (to add flair). We contemplated printing a picture of Bekah to paste on a head, but frankly we were too tired! (Bekah said that would have scared her anyway, I think we made the right decision). The manikin looked great! She was surprised all right! The manikin stood between her new jewelry box and the Christmas tree. Now you know the story... I will get back to Christmas Day. It was the three of us Christmas morning. We had a nice leisurely morning. We made Cinnamon rolls like we do every Christmas morning. We were excited to watch each other open the gifts. We missed Zack this year and did talk to him to wish him a Merry Christmas. We were also missing my mom and Bill this year as they were celebrating Christmas in TN with Bill's parents and my sister and her kids. Later that evening, Rich's Mom, Dad and Uncle Rich came over along with my best friend Lisa. We had a nice ham dinner, very laid back and relaxing.

I am so appreciative of all my blessings. I enjoy so much spending time with friends and family. Whether it's a big planned event or just hanging out together.

Merry Christmas everyone!

Bekah with her manikin and Cinnamon roll. Bekah with the outfit on and her favorite gift...a Pippi Longstocking picture! :)

Well it is 4:26 PM and I am really just starting my working day. What I mean is that I started around 8:30 AM this morning, but with all the work I have left to do, it really is only the beginning. I like the financial freedom my job provides, we are not "rich" in monetary standards by any stretch of the imagination, but we do well for ourselves, have had the opportunities take vacations, be entertained, to entertain and provide for our family and not have to watch every dime we spend. It is a good feeling. Sometimes the stress of my job makes me wonder if it the "appropriate" amount of stress? What if I did something completely different, artistic, free spirited... would I be just trading off one stress for another? Helping to provide for our family and live like we are used too for the stress of not knowing if I can pay the bills? I don't know? But what I do know, is my daughter is happy! Where did that come from within this post you may be asking yourself. Well, I'll tell you, no matter what choices I have made or Rich and I have made together, we did right by our children. They are both happy, productive, well adjusted young adults. Bekah tells us often how grateful she is that we are her parents. She enjoys laughing with us, spending time with us and is truly appreciative of the way we have raised her. So, at the end of the day... to me, that is all that really matters! The rest will figure its self out. So for now, its back to work.
(This picture is from Christmas 2007, when we rented a cottage in Savannah, GA for the week)

Thank our Troops