It's Been So Long!

After an on again, off again relationship with my blog, I have decided to keep going.  I don't know if anyone will ever read it, but it is a good way for me to keep a journal and write more often.  

Today is the first day of Winter Break for my kids.  The two youngest boys have colds, which my body is trying hard to fight.  I am still in my p.j.'s and haven't showered since Saturday.  I missed a Christmas party last night, stayed home with the sickest kid, watched movies and did laundry.  My girls are spending a few nights at my parent's house, and that provides a somewhat quiet house for me!  

I am not ready for Christmas.  I can't believe how quickly it snuck up on me, and every year I tell myself I need to save money ahead of time, or shop early.  This year I didn't listen (again) and we are waiting on a paycheck, so we are not spending much on gifts.  I am either making them, or buying inexpensive, small things for the kids.  The big gift for our whole family is going to be in January.  We are going to rent a cabin near the mountain and spend several days together playing in the snow, sitting by the fire or in the private hot tub.  

I am trying to direct the kids (and myself) to focus more on the true meaning of Christmas.  I keep reminding the kids that it is Jesus' birthday, not ours.  I want peace and love shared abundantly this season.  We are keeping it simple, and aside from the guilt trips I get on occasion by certain teens, I feel like it is going to be a good year. 

Paint

Sometimes, a fresh coat of paint does wonders for the soul. It covers up the dingy ugly surface and looks light and bright again.  I've been in recovery from depression and addictions for almost forty days now. I still struggle, but after doing some thinking about why I don't like coming out of hibernation from my room, I realized that I hate the living space in the rest of the house. I began painting a few days ago, starting in the dining room. I am choosing some bright, happy colors to paint the walls.