Holiday Preppin'

This year, Christmas has taken on a whole new focus for me. I have, in years past, been so consumed with the decorations, the traditions and all the seasonal "must haves". This year, however, after deciding that I was no longer going to live life for me and was going to stop trying to "keep up with the Jones's", the holiday season is far from stressful. I mean, don't get me wrong... I have my tree up, have already drank more than my fair share of egg nog and can't get enough of "Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree", but there is so much more time on my hands, so much more joy in my heart, and so much more patience with my kids. They are ok to leave the house in mismatched shoes, they are going to throw fits and they are going to disobey... but, with God by my side, we can roll with the hard times and know its all a part of the "mother-hood". Having four little ones presents its challenges but these are challenges that I have come to learn to embrace. The best part of setting up our tree this year was actually letting the kids help (clumped ornaments and all). They are so proud of it too. Taking the time to put down my "to do" list and enjoy the time God has blessed me with, with them was another change I made and would have no other way.

My husband and I have decided to reopen our home  to foster care (we fostered a few boys in the past when our Girls were younger and since have adopted one). We know the need is great and we both are anxiously awaiting the little one/ones we will be placed with. Aivahlis, our 9 year old "mommy at heart", just may be more excited than us though! Our children can't wait to love on a baby that needs a home. Heck yeah we will have sleepless nights and more on our plate but, stress happens in life and if my plate is going to be full... what better way to fill it!? Moments happen and turn into memories... we can choose to be a part of that memory or be too busy perfecting the moment! So, this "Holiday Preppin" time of year... don't forget what matters most! Breathe deep, thank God, and enjoy every moment!