For me, Christmas is a time to reflect on the year that is coming to an end. A time to take stock in my life and to see how I measured up. Did I accomplish the things that I wanted too? Did I live the life that I wanted too?
This year just seemed to race on by. First we were in Palm Springs, California, enjoying the sun. Then we were three months (too short a time) in Montana. Next it was a cross country trek that allowed us time (albeit short) to see some family, followed by four months in North Carolina. Then it was, not one, but two trips from the east coast, here to the Midwest (or plains, depending on how you look at it). I have worked in four different types of Rehab settings and have met (and worked with) some amazing people. We've survived some trials and tribulations, and we have enjoyed most of the Grand Adventure.
But now we're here and have been able to see family. Susan's father and step mother live just an hour east of us and it has been a treat to be able to drive and see them. So when Harold invited us over for Christmas eve, we jumped at the offer. We loaded up our three dogs, a bag full of gifts, two WalMart pizzas and two smiling faces...for the trip to west Texas.
We were greeted with open arms, big hugs and a cozy casa. Alice had veggies, chips and dips waiting for us, plus wine, of course. Alice knows how to make guests welcome! She had the tree trimmed and gifts beneath.
Christmas eve was nice. The pizza almost burned, but didn't (I was in charge...whoops) and was enjoyed by all. We all had a great time. Then it was all about exchanging gifts. Thank you both for being so caring. Then we all settled in for some college football, dessert, coffee and conversation.
This morning came with our pre-dawn dog walk, but then crawled back in bed for another hour-and-a-half snooze. Ahh. Breakfast, along with Christmas music, our gifts to the pups and a nice hike at Ned Houk Park set the tone for a relaxing day with my family. And now everyone is tucked in and napping.
So however you enjoy the Season, we hope it was great. Know that we miss all of our friends and family that we weren't able to see this year. Have a happy New Year and we hope our paths will cross sometime soon.
