The kids have moved on to their next Christmas after a good (and exhausting!) celebration. The tree is up and will be for a bit. I need the light and to be honest, have barely had time to sit with it and fully enjoy. I've had rough holidays before. This one has been overwhelming. But, as someone once said to me when I was doing theatre and we were all tired, not always sure of the steps, "Smile, and keep on tapping!"
The week leading up to Christmas -- or rather, the few days before the kids came -- was hectic. Loads of presents to wrap (some to mail). A doc appointment (still can't drive till New Year's Eve; other restrictions till mid-January), followed by a delightful brunch with my driver Carol at a spot new to me -- a good find!
Baking, or trying to. The mixer broke mid-recipe. Only the cherry bars and shortbreads got done -- not enough for my usual generous cookie plates, but good enough for now. But that didn't stop me from being in the kitchen! My friend Jerry came from Paris! We had a terrific afternoon and evening, enjoying presents and snacks, then dinner. (No mixer required.)
It's hard to believe that this morning is Christmas Eve, but our Christmas actually began a few days early and is winding down. We thought the kids were arriving on Monday. Nope -- they would be here on Sunday! So on Saturday, we both were flying around, getting ready! And when they arrived, the merriment began! Since pizza was on the menu, Grandpa and Cam made the crust.
Kevin was in charge of chopping and toppings! I love seeing these guys in the kitchen.
Meanwhile, Molly and I played games with the kids, fun for all of us!
After dinner, the decorating began! First we had to dig all the ornaments out of the box.
The, onto the tree! Definitely a team effort.
Soon it was time for Rick and me to head to my house, Kevin, Molly and Carson would sleep at Rick's. We had a designated guest to take with us! Who could resist this smile? Or those PJs?
A fun bedtime story, lights out -- for all of us. One day of merriment down!
...Jeanie, Christmas is brighter with young children, enjoy yours. Peace.
ReplyDeleteSending so much light and love to you and Rick and Lizzie - Merry Christmas, dear one!
ReplyDeleteYou have enough activity for all of us! It's okay to rest from tapping, too!
ReplyDeleteSomehow, you have carried on in grand fashion.
ReplyDeleteWhat a mad dash for you and Rick! But I think the kids were likely oblivious to any stress you were feeling or emanating! I am glad you had a great time. I hope the next couple of days are slower and more peaceful. You've had a hell of a year. I hope you can sit down and stare at your tree and find your happy place. Thanks for my insomnia, I've spent a lot of time in front of the tree in a quiet house when everyone else is sleeping. And while I'd rather be sleeping, there are worse things than staring at a tree.
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas, Jeanie. I'm so grateful for our friendship and glad that I FINALLY got to hug you in person!
Wow, those trees turned out fabulous! I love your decorating style. Have a great rest of your holiday season.
ReplyDeleteHello Jeanie,
ReplyDeleteHappy Christmas Eve! You are like an energizer bunny, even not being at 100%.
I hope you are healing well. Your photos show you are all having fun! We are having our Christmas celebrations with son, DIL and grandchildren today. Take care, have a great day! Merry Christmas to you and your family!
What a delightful time you had! Hope you feel stronger everyday and enjoy every minute….Merry Christmas. Cheers, Virginia
ReplyDeleteVery tiring ,- but lots of fun too! A very Happy Christmas to you all!
ReplyDeleteChristmas is much more fun with children. I loved it as a child and then with our daughter. Now it's just the Geek and myself - it's not as magic, but we will have a good, lazy time together.
ReplyDeleteThat top photo of Rick is wonderful, he has such a great smile. And soon you will be able to drive again and then it's only a few more weeks until your limitations will end. Something to look forward to.
Merry Christmas!
Christmas is always fun with children around. Wish my kids and grands were young again. Glad you had a wonderful time and hopefully you will be able to drive again soon. Merry Christmas! Janice
ReplyDeleteOn balance, sounds like more good than bad, Jeanie, and you have the pleasure of driving to look forward to! Now that’s a mixed blessing if ever there was one!
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas to you and Rcik Jeanie x
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