Christmas and Life as of Late...

Christmas Eve I had to work, and of course, last minute shopping was done.

The kids had fun helping us decorate and eat some sugar cookies for Santa. 

Christmas morning the kids woke up to Christmas PJs from Santa (yes, they should have had them the night before, but this little elf was still busy making them). 

Ryan's family came over in the morning and the kids were excited to start ripping their presents open.

Last year I think we went a little overboard in the toy-giving department. This year we kept it much smaller, and I am so glad we did. 

The aftermath of Christmas last year

Ari enjoyed all of her new Hello Kitty clothes and accessories, her 'FurReal' kitty, Star Wars Mr. "Tnato", and much more. 

Hunter only cared about his toys. He tossed any clothes that he got aside and went straight for all of his monster trucks, and other toys.

Between myself and Ryan's mom (mostly Ryan's mom) we waited hours in line for some shoes for Ryan. He knew I was getting them. He is impossible to surprise. But he loves them, and they were a good addition to his collection.

Ryan got the cutest booties for me. And a super cute hat that I have been eyeing for a while.  

After naps we went over to my parents for dinner and more presents. 

More toys and clothes for the kids and some other fun things for Ryan and me. 

Unfortunately, I got really sick right after dinner. We stayed long enough to open presents, but left shortly after.

Hunter got sick as well the next day, but luckily within 24 hours we were both back to normal and thank goodness no one else got it. Ryan did a good job taking care of the kids, me and the house. 

We had a great Christmas surrounded by loved ones and getting spoiled as usual! 

Reflective

Maybe it is this season, but I have been very reflective lately. I've been thinking a lot about my life, and the lives of those close around me. Part of me is grieving, but most of me is just feeling so grateful for all of the blessings in my life. 

I finished my first term back at school two weeks ago. I really enjoyed my class. I learned a lot and I met a lot of nice ladies. Most of these ladies have been through a lot, and it was very humbling to hear about their struggles. Oh, and I passed with an A, so that was an added bonus! 

I am so gretful for my relationship with Ryan. We celebrated our fifth anniversary a few weeks ago. I cannot believe how fast these past five years have gone. Ryan spoils us, and takes care of us. My life is so blessed!

These two cutie-pies bring me so much happiness. I love their unique peronalities, their silliness and their sweetness. They both just melt my heart. I cannot ever leave without Ari insisting on giving me plenty of hugs and kisses. She is my little helper. My gorgeous little girl. Hunter is my little cuddle bug. His cuddles never get old. Yes, he can be a clingy one, but I secretly love it. This kid is so active and growing up so fast. Hunter is seriously the sweetest little boy. Ryan recently taught him how to give real hugs. He's getting good at squeezing. Anytime he hits, or I make a sad face Hunter will say, "you kay?" And come give me a big kiss.