Why I Love Christmas

Last night I was finally consumed with the Christmas spirit. I was excited right before Thanksgiving when the music on the radio started and I started thinking about gifts for the boys. But then we travelled for Thanksgiving, (which was delightful in its own way) Eldon and I both got sick, and life became really busy. I was shopping a lot, but it felt more frantic than anything. Finally last night, even though Eldon had to go home teaching and be a judge for the neighborhood lights contest, it was a magical night. We came home from church starving. I was making my favorite, chicken lasagna. I hurried and threw it together and fed the kids, including my unborn child, while Eldon was out doing his stuff. Once he got home, it was like peace surrounded us. It was frigid outside but toasty warm inside. We put Jackson down for bed early due to the lack of nap during church. Max, Eldon and I just read the paper, made cookies, and wrapped presents all together and talked. We had some light Christmas music in the background, candles lit and just truly enjoyed ourselves. Even though I had to work today, I didn't feel the pressure to get everyone to bed. It was such a nice night with no TV, no phone calls, just us doing Christmas things.

Now I do feel bad that Jackson missed it all, but I have to say that if he were involved, the peace would have left us. When he gets tired, he runs from one thing to the next with no attention span. It is very difficult to keep up with him and to keep the house safe. His turn will come in a few years and his little sister will have to go to bed early.

I love just being with my little family. I love having the time to appreciate all our blessings. Each moment like that is wonderful. I have to write about it because it doesn't happen that often!