Sorry for having been gone for so long, things have a way of "snowballing" and getting totally out of control and thus, things get put on the back burner and unfortunately, this blog was one of them. I am back now, better than ever and as always, full of fun, family and crafty tidbits.
Much has happened since we were last together, alas, too much to actually put here in one post. I will catch everyone up as things present themselves. Not to worry.
Since it is now only 26 days till Christmas, yes I did say 26 days, I am in full Operation Christmas mode. My house has been transformed into the holiday house, thanks to DD's 2 & 3. They did a fabulous job on the tree and decorations...thanks girls.
Black Friday presented, as usual, with a challenge of shopping and fighting crowds. It is fine balance between being pleasant while having strangers push and shove and practically take things out of your hands while you are looking at them in the stores. Yes, this really did happen. This was probably the most "combative" Black Friday that I have been through in many years. I have several years of seasoned shopping under my belt, but this year was extremely volatile. That being said, I did manage to get some really great deals and got about 1/2 of my shopping done this year.
This year, we are beginning the holiday cutbacks. The kids are all pretty much grown, so this year, they aren't getting all the little gifts. We are focusing on college and tech gifts. Those of you who have seen my trees in the past, will acknowledge that we usually have so many gifts under the tree that we almost need our own store. This has been known in the past as the 5 children syndrome. This year, with 2 of the five out of high school (update #1: DD1 graduated in June 2010) and 2 of the five Seniors in high school and thus going off to school next year (update #2: DD2 and DS2) that leaves only 1 at home with us. (DD3). We are starting the downturn.
Update #3: DS1 and his girlfriend are living with us now for the time being, but are moving into their own apartment next week due to the baby, yes I said the baby word, coming any day now. We are all excited to "announce" that the first grandbaby (a girl) is on her way to join us soon. We expect her to make an appearance any day now. Needless to say, I am thrilled, excited, etc and am looking forward to being a grandma for the first time. :)
Update #4: I turned 50 this year, yes I know ancient history. I decided that I wanted the biggest birthday party that I could throw!! So, we did. I had about 50 people here, with their kids. We did a pot luck and we even rented a bounce house for the kids, young and young at heart, to play in. I did not go into the bounce house, but the friends who brought their younger children, were able to relax and stay a bit longer than usual due to the kiddies being entertained.
Here is a picture of the cake....can you guess what my favorite color is????? I fell in love with this cute little guy..... :)
Here is a picture of the bounce house...see I really did get one!!!! :)
For those who have been keeping up with me on Facebook, I appreciate that. For those who haven't and actually thought I had dropped off the face of the earth, well, obviously, I didn't.
That's about all for now. We will continue the catch up in our next visit. Hope you all have a wonderful week and that at this time of year, we all take a moment to realize how blessed we all are. Please remember to say thank-you to anyone who you feel deserves it.
Until next time.
Hugs,
Debi :)
