Sweet Simplicities: December 2009

I LOVE Christmas. It's my favorite time of the year. Decking the halls, Making spirits bright, and of course, Bringing Him laud, the Babe, the Son of Mary. I am in awe of the King - the birth of Jesus - a true Christmas miracle. The hustle and bustle of the holidays brings excitement and cheer. The story of Bethlehem brings wonder and amazement.

This year, Scott and I had the enjoyment of attending both of our work Christmas parties. The Sheriff's department is like one big family so hanging out with them is always a good time! The food was dE-lish, the drinks were plentiful, and the entertainment was hilarious. There's nothing like being around a bunch of law enforcers letting loose...and boy, do they deserve to!
My work festivities started out at Northside Grill and then continued on to Sine. It was fun to hang out with my colleagues outside of school with no munchkins to worry about.
School let out for the holidays on Friday the 18th. The euphoria of that day was long-awaited! 2-week vacation...YESSSSS. It started off with my in-laws coming to town for a long weekend. They spoiled us with cooking yummy meals, treating us to Outback (I could eat bloomin' onions every day), and taking us to Christmas Town in Williamsburg (totally worth going to!).
I almost forgot to mention the SNOW! Oh so beautiful when it first falls. However, when it prevents you from getting out of your slope-of-a-driveway, it can make ya a little stir crazy. No worries though- we got to keep Bruce and Audrey for another day and thank God that we didn't lose power!
Scott and I exchanged gifts early because he had to work on Christmas day. My new toy is a Garmin which will forever help me get from point A to B with smooth sailing...my world has been rocked. Thank you, Scottie. On Christmas Eve Eve, the usual family and friends gathered at Mom's for a gift exchange, food, and games...and of course the night wasn't complete without side-splitting, knee-slapping laughter!! Christmas Eve brought relaxation as all the presents had already been wrapped. Scott and I ventured downtown to our church's service and then came home, plopped ourselves on the couch with some warm drinks, and in the stillness of the night, the reason for the season settled into our hearts.
On Christmas, I headed to mom's in the morning followed by grandmother's house in the afternoon. Gift-opening from oldest to youngest, then a tasteful meal and dessert. I love chatting around the table enjoying the company of family. Highlights: new boots and my grandmother sipping bourbon to soothe her throat, rather quickly I might add, while exclaiming, "It really helps!"
Today, mom and I went out early to catch some of the after-Christmas sales. So fun when you find great deals. Now I'm home, watching Food Network- Iron Chef of course- and desiring to eat everything I see on the screen. *sigh* Bruce and Audrey, please come back soon. Oh wait- you are! Tomorrow! Yay!

I hope you and your family had the merriest Christmas. Happy New Year!

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2nd Grade Field Trip to the Children's Museum - Me, Frosty, and Ashley (Grade Level Chair & Mentor)