Party success

So much fun was had on Saturday that it's almost illegal, I'm sure. 23 women in one room, sharing and laughing, is a glorious event, I assure you. The gift exchange was, by far, my favorite thing of the night. All of us sitting in one room, around a large stack of beautifully wrapped presents, was like we were all sisters on Christmas morning. The excitement was in the air. Lots of ooh's and aah's as gifts were unwrapped; and then a few "hey! I wanted that!", as gifts were stolen, grabbed and taken back again and again. The laughter was so contagious.

There's one downfall to hosting such a party. I didn't get to spend quality time with many that I haven't seen in a long time. Don't get me wrong. I had a fabulous time. It just seemed to go so quickly and then I was wishing for more time. I'm going to have to make some time to visit with some who I didn't get to, at the party!

I also forgot to take a group picture!!!! Each year I've taken one and now I don't have one for the third year. I'm pretty bummed out about that!

The next day came early. I was the last one to bed at 5:30 a.m. Up again at 9:30 to enjoy a fabulous quiche (made by Makiko) and coffee! LOTS of coffee! As everyone started to make their way home, I made my way back to bed. I spent most of the day there, napping and watching tv. I'm getting older and those early mornings take their toll on me! Jake kept me company, though.

I'm anxious( I think) to see some pics from the party. I'm sure friends will be posting to fb soon. I didn't take a whole lot, that night. Too busy socializing, I guess! 

Now that that's over, I can focus on the next event. My hubby and I are headed to Vancouver in a couple of weeks for a weekend away. I'm looking forward to it and I don't need to plan anything! ;) I can't wait to visit the ocean. I know it has missed me, as much as I have missed it!

Busy Christmas

Such a busy time of year!!! Why do we try to cram so much into this one month? I read recently, about a family (the happiness project) who no longer send out year end/Christmas cards. Instead they have become Valentines. When I read this I thought "what a fantastic idea! I'm going to do that!" As Christmas draws nearer, I'm doubting my decision, but sticking to it. This first year will be hard because as the cards roll in for our family, so too, are people expecting one from us. I still may give a card or two as I give out gifts, but the form letter(detailing how we are doing) and picture that usually accompanies each one, will be missing. I'm ok with that. Christmas is becoming overwhelming to me and I'm glad to be rid of one expectation. And besides....... who doesn't love to get Valentines in the mail. Christmas cards you expect; but Valenitines???

I'm frustrated this morning too. I dropped the kids at school and upon noticing the beauty outside, decided to come home and get my camera. I drove around town taking pics of the beautiful trees covered in hoar frost. Very relaxing and I was feeling good about it. I came home to download said pictures, and the card reader is not recognizing the card! I'm beyond angry. I already kicked the computer, screamed at the top of my lungs and slapped the card down on the desk. I'm done now. My husband will fix it later. I'm just going to let it go................... So pictures later. (I hope)

I'm not done Christmas shopping, the real tree we got is dead already, it's cold, I'm getting my belly back,the laundry continues to pile up...................... and to top it all off, I'm tired of everyone complaining! bahahahahahahahahah  I guess that's where this all originated. So much complaining this time of year is bringing me down. Not just social media but face to face, too. People are disgruntled with what life is dishing out these days. I'm getting sucked in. I'm a firm believer that we reap what we sow. The more complaining you do, the more you solidify what it is you're complaining about. I just can't seem to get away from it though. I refuse to use the word 'hate' on my status or tweets. It just seems wrong at this time of year. Wrong at most times but Christmas especially. Such  strong connotations! Settle down people! Where's the love?

Well now that I've had my little hissy fit, I'm going to change the rest of my day! I will be the one to spread the love. I'm going to exercise with loud music. Have a shower and get all gussied up for lunch with my husband. I'll have a pedicure after that, and bring a Christmas present to my wonderful friend who fills me with hope and inspiration. Then I will approach the rest of my day with appreciation, and joy for the season! I will I will!
We'll see how it goes, but I'm gonna try! Ciao for now!