The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!!

  I am back in Utah right now. I am not sure if I am happy to be back or not, yet. Going home was kind of a whirlwind of a trip and I wish there was something I could do to slow time down. The 4 days that I was home absolutely flew by. It was so great to get out of Utah for a little and also to relax at home with family! Relaxation and my family are two things that I really miss in my life. However, I really did have so much fun at home! I was able to see most of my close friends and family, the food was great, I got great gifts, the weather was perfect for Christmas... all in all it was just a great trip.

  I am lucky to be an aunt to 5 beautiful nieces and 2 nephews. I was only able to see Brooklyn and Georgia... they are so darling. I miss them so much! I love the cute things they have to say and watching them and how they try to make sense of things. I would say one of the greatest gifts of the year was being able to see the genuine excitement on those little girls' faces. Most definitely a priceless gift! I wish I was able to see more of Brooklyn, Georgia, Claire, Olivia and little Jacob. I live close to Mackenzie and I hardly get to see her two cuties. It has been so fun to see how they have grown over the past few years. 

  For those of you that have never been to my house at Christmas time- - you're really missing out. My mom does an unbelievable job at decorating the house. Her decorations are so unique and gorgeous! I love being home... but being home at Christmas time is the absolute best. I never really appreciated it as much as I should have until I have been living on my own. I don't have near the collection of decorations as my mom and I know that I wouldn't have her skill either. I miss my mom and I know that I should pay more attention to the things she does-- so, for when it is my turn to be grown up, I can instill the same feeling in my home. I am very grateful for my mom and the little things she has taught me over the years. As stubborn and difficult as I may have been in high school, I learned a lot from my mom. There are things that I am able to get done today, that I know I wouldn't be able to do without my mom's influence.

  It was really great to see two of my four sisters! I miss them  a lot. It has been great to grow closer to all of my sisters. I wish we could be together more often! It was so fun to be with my dad also! He's a great man that has a lot of my respect and love. I appreciate his wisdom very much. It is funny to watch the dynamic of a family change as everyone grows and matures in their own way. I like it a lot! 

  I love Christmas time... Can't wait for next year!!! 

Happy New Years Everyone!!!