OK, I suck at this rhyming thing. But really, so much of this week has been so beautiful and special.
First - the Sorensen gathering. There were 70 people in attendance - and that's not all of us! I am constantly amazed by the love and support from these people through everything. The Sorensens have had a rough go for the last 2 years. And it has only made our ties stronger. I laughed so hard at the white elephant exchange that I cried. It was perfect.
Second - the Jones gathering. I loved spending time with my grandparents and my Aunt Cathy's family. Most of those cousins are the same age as my siblings, or really close - so all of us have a buddy. I am grateful for my buddy, Ashley. She took great care in finding things to help me relax and take care of myself - since I don't do it enough. ;) We enjoyed each others' company until Santa was flying over Canada - then it was time to get the kiddos home to feed reindeer and all that jazz. AND.... I forgot to take pictures....
Third - Immediate family Christmas "morning". This was a little different than usual, but it was still wonderful, nonetheless.
My dad had to work at 2, which meant he had to leave at 1:15 at the latest to get there on time. We needed to start a bit late, though, because Jacquelle and Kira had family things (missionary phone calls, etc.) in the morning. JJ really tried to be patient, but it just didn't work. Haha.
When everyone got there, we were able to have our traditional waffles - just like Grandmother Lucy used to make. This selection has homemade whip cream, banana butter, crushed strawberries, and happiness.
And then, we had to hurry and open presents before dad had to leave.
I feel like everything was super successful. It was great to have everyone together.
As we grow older, it feels harder to get wonderful gifts for my siblings. They're like me in that they just find what they need and get it - our mom is the "gift person" and loves giving and receiving thoughtful gifts. But I think that even with that constraint there was a lot of thought put into gifts.
Now, it brings me to the after party - Mom and I ended up canning pears. lots and lots of pears. Pear sauce, pear butter - you name it, we did it. It smelled really great, and looked delicious.
And now.....today. I was lame and cleaned my room. All day. But it was sorely needed. I threw a lot of things out and organized my Pampered Chef stuff. YAY! SO needed.
Then I met a nice guy named Chris for some cocoa. We'll see what happens there. :)
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