I feel like such a slacker not updating this blog; but in my defense I really do this mostly for the grandparents and since the kids (at least the big kids) have been in with their grandparents for the last month I felt less pressure to do so.
Christmas has come and gone, and like the rest of the year was very different from years past. We had to plan the entire Christmas morning experience around what would fit in our suitcases for the trip home and what would have to be packed away when we move in a couple of months it put things in a whole different view. So Santa brought the kids Nintendo DSs for Christmas. They were/are excited and I think it should make traveling especially to South America less hair pulling for me.
The best gift however came on Christmas Eve when my sister gave us a beautifully personalized frame announcing the coming arrival of their twins. We are so excited! Funny how it took me 10 years to deliver 3 grandchildren and in one swoop she will nearly double the count. My kids are so excited about the additions to our family and let me assure you tears were shed (I won't say by who) when we realized we will be in Paraguay when they arrive. Travel plans in the works, we will pray it works out.
The kids have loved their time with their grandparents. I'm so glad they got this time before we leave. Although both kids got the flu while I was away and then managed to pass it to my mother. I'm sure this was a Christmas they will never forget.
I would like to take a minute to share what I am grateful for:
I am grateful for a husband that takes care of me even when I whine.
I am grateful for parents who are willing to take care of my sick kids without complaint.
I am grateful for children who think of others and are honest.
I am grateful for a baby that makes me smile everyday.
I am grateful for a gospel that I can feel the spirit even in a language I don't understand.
I am thankful for the opportunity to learn Spanish even though it makes me want to scream.
I am grateful for a family that is selfless.
And last but not least, I am so very grateful for my Savior and Redeemer and the time given to us each year to remember his tender birth.
I hope you all had a wounderful holiday. I'll try to get Christmas pictures up soon.
