Fresh Start

This Christmas season was different from recent years. Decorations were up promptly after Thanksgiving and were fully savored and enjoyed all month long. No traveling, with or without Matt. We enjoyed time being cozy little homebodies and didn't get around to everything (neighbor gifts, Christmas cards, Christmas crafts, traditional holiday baking . . .) But we watched the movies, listened to all the music, saw so many beautiful lights, and did our very best to maintain a steady focus on the Savior. We were able to celebrate Christmas on Christmas, we had Matt home with us for 4 DAYS IN A ROW, and Jonathan is finally old enough to be excited about Santa and fully comprehend the magic of it all. It was so hard to be far from our families, but it was soothing and peaceful to spend such a special weekend together--just us.

Here's the funny thing though; as soon as it was over I was ready for it to be over. Like, really ready. Normally I fight to keep everything up until New Years (at least) but come December 27 it was just time. Time to get my house back. Time for new playlists. Time to dust, clean floors, and clear out the clutter. Time to figure out where the new toys and clothes will go and donate some of the old ones. Time to move forward. I am itching for a fresh start and a new year. We are ready for you, 2018!

Today

Not much to say today; just wanted to check in! Life is moving slowly right now. We are spending more time at home. I am trying to play more, read more, and be more present  . . . but a lot of the time I just feel behind. This whole "stay-at-home mom" thing (for lack of a better phrase) is tricky. Everything surrounds me all at once, just waiting to be done. But come on, there are kids to raise! They need my time and attention. But I have to keep my own cup filled so there will be something for me to give. And the house, don't forget the house! A house of order is a house of God. I try to do it all--be efficient, yet calm--playful, yet firm--consistent, but not inflexible. Children take priority, but there is always more to be done--more cleaning, laundry, dishes, organizing, cooking, food-prep, etc. Some days feel more balanced than others. Isn't that always the case?

The onset of cold weather is difficult for me. I thrive on sunshine and time spent outdoors and I'm really missing beach days, sunny afternoons in the yard, early morning walks, and late evening park trips. Truth be told, we live in Southern Virginia so it doesn't even get that cold, but as far as I am concerned, 36 degrees is frigid. And it gets dark so early. Time to figure this whole winter thing out! For now we are thriving on a healthy dose of Christmas cheer, but January will come and this homebody-ness just won't be the same without twinkle lights and Andy Williams.