Christmas Eve Eve

Two more days! The kids are fairly crackling with expectant energy. That, or I forgot a dryer sheet in the last load of underwear I washed.

I took them out today to get Daddy's and the grandparents' presents, plus stocking stuffers for each other. They are so funny to watch as they choose gifts. They are so enthusiastic that it pains me to have to turn down 75% of what they pick. They don't always understand too expensive, too large/small, wrong style or just inappropriate.

Eventually, though, we got everything in the car, home and upstairs for wrapping. Remember the empty schoolroom? Er, not anymore. I had to squeeze into the storage space (which is currently holding everything that would fit,) and pull out the wrapping supplies. Then the three of us worked to get all the gifts decorated and ready for under the tree, and I slipped in their stocking stuffers while they were playing a video game.

You know, this year, I didn't do nearly as much as in previous years, yet I feel much more fulfilled. I think what I've done before was more about being the perfect holiday mom, and yet this year, I've been less stressed and more relaxed and spontaneous. I'll have to take notes.

Not that I'll look at them. I kept a detailed journal of last year, because I thought it went very well. Did I refer back to it this year? Heck no! I couldn't even FIND it this year. So much for following a plan. Maybe spontaneity has it's advantages. I've been spontaneously deciding to eliminate seasonal projects left and right. And it's been very nice.

Well, except for 4:00 this morning when I was shocked into full consciousness when I realized I'd purchased NOT ONE GIFT for my sweet honey. And after all he's done for me this year! Sigh.

Hence the last minute dash to the store. I say store because we found everything we needed at one place. Gotta love Steinmart.

(Actually, there is a substantial present for him on the way, but he picked that one out himself, so that only kinda counts.)

So, after a fun-filled, non-stressful day, we went out with our friend for pizza, salad and chocolate cake.

My work here is done. For today.