Ah, Christmas. The time of love and joy and celebration. A time for family and togetherness and appreciation.

Yup, it is all that. But in my house, it’s also the time of crazy anticipation, last minute mall runs, kids hopped up on sugar and the inevitable freakout over Christmas cards not sent. It’s also the time for wrapping. I *loathe* wrapping. I also really, really stink at it.

See, I suck.

Is it wrong to want your kids to be older simply because then you can put their presents in gift bags? If so, forget I mentioned it.

All that said, I love this time of year. I love the Christmas carols and the fact that we have 4 Christmas celebrations over 4 days starting on Saturday. I love that we get to spend precious time with each side of our families and that I only have to cook for 1 of these parties. I love giving gifts I know people will love even if the wrap job is less then stellar. I love seeing how excited my kids get over each and every thing we do- from looking at the lights around town, to seeing Santa, to picking out gifts for each other. It’s fun- they’re fun- and I’m bound and determined to soak up every minute of it.

From here on out, life is going to get crazy as our celebrations go into full swing.  So I wanted to wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas!  May Santa bring all your families much love, companionship and joy this holiday season!