Do you remember?

Do you remember the anticipation of Santa's arrival? The countless Christmas lists and special requests that you hoped would plead your case to St. Nick? Do you remember being unable to sleep the night before, staring out the window, catching a glimpse of Rudolph's shiny-red-nose? Did you ever wake up in the wee hours of the morning hoping to see Santa himself? Once morning finally arrived, did you rush to the tree to see how many gifts had your name scribbled on the tags? Did you promptly empty your stocking and begin your day with a healthy dose of sugary treats?

Where did the time go?

Gone are the days of tossing and turning all night, unable to sleep, waiting for Santa. Instead, I'm up all night, rushing to wrap, fill and place items without being discovered by the little ones who can't sleep.

My Christmas Eve was filled with three hours of wrapping in the afternoon, making a lovely ham dinner, letting the kids open the gifts from their Aunt and Uncle and trying to convince the little ones that I just heard Santa's sleigh pass by because they were still awake! Once we finally had them tucked into bed, I finished up wrapping gifts, stuffing stockings and becoming increasingly upset by the fact that I was doing this all alone. Apparently, the other Elf in the house doesn't like to purchase or wrap gifts. So as I pressed on doing my Motherly duties, the Elf responded to a mutual aid call and was gone until almost 4am Christmas morning.

Perhaps it's just part of being a Mom an Adult, but I couldn't be happier that Christmas is over now! Last night and especially today, I felt defeated. I put in hours of prep work, making sure everything would fall into place. I made sure I prepped for several weeks in order to be certain the kids would even have gifts. I wanted to be sure the children would have an enjoyable Christmas filled with wonderful memories. And in the end, it paid off.

I, on the other hand, feel let down. The other Elf made sure to purchase one gift for one child and then for good measure, he bought himself something too. He made sure he bought something for his Mom and his Dad. And yet, somehow he failed to realize that maybe the slightest bit of recognition for the other household Elf would be greatly appreciated!

What did I get for Christmas? Nothing. No box of chocolates or scented candles. No back massage or even an offer for dinner out. Not a single thing!

At least I was able to enjoy the moments of watching the kids open their gifts. I'd have to say, they were all thankful and happy with what they received. One of my favorite quotes from the morning came from Austin (8).

"Awesome! A box of 64 crayons with a built in sharpener!"

Yes, he really was happy about something as simple as a box of crayola crayons.

Imagine that, he enjoys even the simplest things. He's just like his Mother! Too bad his Dad didn't take the time to realize that.

Before I go, I wanted to share another quote:

"Daddy said we don't have to ask for milk because milk is free."

Thanks, Emilee. Could you let your Dad know that I would have enjoyed something simple and free, you know, like a hot bubble bath and a good back rub!

Tomorrow, I go in for the first set of Cardiac testing. Do you think they may tell me I have a broken heart?

Merry Christmas, Everyone!