Oh Christmas!

Does anyone else feel like Christmas is a wonderful but stressful time? I used to love Christmas time but this year it doesn't seem as wonderful. There is so much going on and it feels like 100% of Christmas has fallen on my shoulders this year. I'm weary and trying not to be bitter. I'm hoping that once finals are over next week I will begin to feel a bit of excitement.

The mantle is decorated and complete with a fire. This is our first Christmas in this house and the first Christmas as an adult that I have had a mantle. It was so nice to hang the garland and lights and the new stockings we received last year from Grandma Kathy. The gas was turned on yesterday and I enjoyed relaxing for a few moments in front of the beautifully decorated mantle and fireplace.

Yesterday, Chas' good friend came in from Alabama to come visit for the evening. It was a nice visit for Chas and a milestone for me. Anthony and I never seemed to get along and while there was never any bickering or ugly words, we just didn't seem to like each other. About a month ago we did the mature thing and after 3 1/2 years of tension, we worked it out. Who knew he was so funny and such a nice guy. We all had a lovely visit after the guys got back from the movies. It was nice to see Chas laugh and cut up like he did last night. There has been so much ugliness and stress going on that a little laughter for both of us was quite nice.

Lindsey came over last night for an early birthday dinner. She will be in NYC on her birthday this weekend and so the kids and I made her dinner complete with a cake and present. It was nice to sit down to a home cooked meal with the kids and my very good friend. Lindsey gets along so well with my kids and they just adore her. I must admit she is a breath of fresh air in our life.

Well it is time to get back to final projects and other school related work. The semester is almost over!