Missing Christmas

This Christmas was different than any other in previous years. I longed for the hectic Christmas Eve at my grandma’s house. I wanted to sit in the extremely crowded room, rip open my gifts, and reminisce with my cousins about previous holidays. Walking into that house you could tell Christmas was something she planned for all year. In fact, she liked to call me in September to ask what I wanted to for Christmas. When my grandpa got too sick to get a tree and help decorate, my family and I got the honors of helping her. She was always so impressed with the trees we picked out. While decorating the tree, she told us the stories that went along with the ornaments. I loved to help her at Christmas time.
Last year, we all knew she needed more help than she asked for. One day she called me and asked me to come and help her bake and get ready for the day she waited for all year long. Although she very confused, it was a time I am incredibly thankful for. It was a special time for me to be with her.
This year there was no helping, no crowded room, and no cousins. Instead my family and I had a quiet evening of going to church, having Strings for dinner, and watching Elf. It was weird. I did not like it. I missed my hectic Christmas Eve and especially my grandma.

Not ready

I apologize that it has been so long since an update. I have been crazy busy with college applications, babysitting, schoolwork, being sick, and having a ton of make up work to do. Considering this has consumed my life for the past month or so, Christmas has really snuck up on me. I started my shopping last Sunday (December 16th). Not good. On Monday, I found my self frazzled at the mall trying to get some shopping. When I finally found something, I realized at the counter that I forgot my ATM card at home. I searched my wallet trying to see if I could find enough money for the gift; I did!
The only gift I was really certain I was going to but was something online for my little sister. It was perfect! I knew what I wanted and even agreed to pay the two-day shipping price so that it would arrive in plenty of time. This was over a week ago and there is still no present. However, I did receive an email from the company for 30% off my next order because of any inconvenience (it expires Jan 31, 2008).
Last night it finally felt somewhat like a normal Christmas year for me. Rachel and I had our special little gift exchange, had dinner with my family, made some yummy treats, and watched “Friends.” I felt somewhat relaxed and ready for the coming days.
I hope everyone has all their shopping done and is ready for Christmas. If I do not blog, see, or talk to you in the next few days, have a wonderful Christmas!
Oh, just thought everyone shold know that Target already had bathing suits out...CRAZY!