First Christmas

Another Christmas has passed us by without Mom, Dad and Justin. Even though it's only been a year and a half, I am forgetting what it's like to have Parents and my immediate Family around me through the Holiday Season. Sure, I have the memories to carry with me forever but its just so different to not go home for Christmas. I miss them terribly and unfortunately, I will miss them this way for the rest of my life. Not having them to share my daughters first Christmas with was just the worst. I never imagined this-I always thought they would be here. It was hard to smile at times-I'm still so angry, even though I have my beautiful daughter this year which has been a huge blessing, there is still such a large void which has sucked most of the spirit out of me.....I do know, though, I still have much to be thankful for.

Ted's parents put on a wonderful Christmas Eve celebration as always. Elle was wonderful at the hour long mass and just stared at the other kids and enjoyed the carols that were sang. Ted helped his Mom put on a wonderful dinner and we enjoyed the Lobster and his attempted Maple Mousse-a recipe that has been in his Family for a while. Ted's Dad did a beautiful blessing and I so appreciate the words about my Parents-nice to know people care and think about them. It really meant a lot. My Sister joined us too and spoiled her niece with many gifts, including her very first pair of UGGS! Our dear friends Melissa and Nick spent Christmas eve with us as well jut as they have been for many years. We all enjoyed ourselves.


Christmas morning we were overwhelmed with stuffed to the rim stockings and endless amounts of gifts under the tree. Elle enjoyed sharing her first Christmas with her Grandparents, Aunts and Uncles and us. Elle did a good job ripping open the gifts-with a little help; she recieved her very first recliner chair, toys, books, clothes, shoes and a fun playhouse......she was so tired out at the end of it, she fell asleep next to Daddy by the fire, surrounded by wrapping paper.

Then in the afternoon we headed over to Matt's where Christina put on a really nice dinner. She has turned into quite the entertainer. My Grandfather made it from Harrison and stayed for a few days, and my Mom's brother's came over as well along with Ted's parents and Matt's family.....new traditions. I so missed being at my Mom and Dad's on Christmas day and enjoying my Dad's cooking and Mom's baking but I have to say, the food was excellent that Christina prepared and her incredible baking was even better. She made a ton of homemade cookies and of course, Mom's cheesecakes. She did a really good job putting on her first Christmas. I am proud of her as I know she is struggling just as bad as I am. We are all learning.........Although saddened, I am blessed to have spent Christmas with my daughter and my Grandfather and all of our wonderful family and friends. Thank you for your generosity and love.

The day after Christmas we had the honor of attending one of my dearest friends weddings. the snow was falling which made the backdrop incredibly picturesque. I did a reading at the ceremony and put together a fun picture DVD slideshow that everyone seemed to enjoy while they sipped cocktails during the reception. I just love picture slideshows. My very first one I put together was for my Dad's 50th and I've been doing them ever since....

I look forward to a week back here in MI to catch up with friends, catch a hockey game of my nephew's, some shopping, time with our family, a night out in Royal Oak for dinner, and a fabulous NYE party to attend. I will have some fun....