Christmas take 2

Yesterday we had Mike's side of the family Christmas get together. We planned to meet at the same place we did for thanksgiving ( ryans club house at his apartments ) on sunday after christmas to allow for us all to have our normal christmas plans.

Come this week we were upset/ saddened to learn that steven and becky would not be making it because of the snow?!

Mike and I were looking forward to it, as Thanksgiving was done this way as well and it worked out so nicely.
Things with his family arent normal at all - but in recent months have been more calm.
Things were so nice, and so laid back. Mike really needs this and for him and Madaya I support it.

It really kind of bugs me to think that his side made things more pleasant than some of my family plans this year. I mean seriously.
No drama is kinda nice.
No one made anyone feel bad for wanting --- no scratch that NEEDING ( it really was a need ) to be somewhere else for a while, or for not helping, doing, etc. And NO WORK!!!

Although my family get togethers were nice, I just think this was a lil nicer, and I never expected it.
Maybe because everyone is so happy lately?

Danielle is soon to be married, and a new momma. Shes absolutely glowing and loving life. We have had our differences thats for sure, and are not close but I am happy for her and the strides shes taken. She has a lot on her plate, and shes still trying to balance it all.

Selina has had a busy busy year, and often bites off more than she should chew, yet always manages to swallow. And I think her and Jeff are finally in a comfy spot in life - something she admits they have been working together very hard on - it shows.

Mike and I are together, and happy. Treating each other with the love and respect we each deserve and enjoying the time we get to be together. Its so nice to be here in this moment rather than in the moment that he comes home for one day :)

Really ... things are just at peace.

Steve and Lisa did not come over for either of the holidays but did visit and share time with us all in october. Lisa is hurt and cant travel - but we know their thoughts were there

Christy is stuck in Canada, and we worry much of her. We would all love to see her back home with some of us in the states, but I dont think thats going to be happening anytime soon. We worry of her all around health and well being and hopefully soon will hear/ see some much needed improvement there on many levels. We love her and wish her the best.

The extended family doesnt/ hasnt been together in a long time - and that wasnt different this year although weve spoken to many and all are well :)

With that side of the family there is no gifts exchanges or anything to worry of and that rounded out a good time together of playing games, visiting and eating ...

Christmas take 2 was good.

And ...

ALL DONE NOW!!!

( ill post pics as I get them )