Friday, January 2, 2009

Phew....

The month of December was a complete whirlwind!

The holidays are always a busy time of the year and I love the hustle and bustle and cheer of the season, but I'm always left with a mixture of sadness that Christmas is over so quickly yet relief that things will finally start to slow down again. I guess that is kind of the same with many things in life. Sadness and relief....all at the same time.

You are sad when a family member passes away, yet relieved that they aren't in pain and aren't suffering anymore.

You're sad when a once close family member chooses to not participate in family gatherings during the holidays, yet relieved they aren't in a worse place in their lives.

You're sad when your spouse can't be with you to enjoy the spirit of the season, but so relieved to know he will be home for Christmas next year.

The holidays were tough y'all, and quite frankly, I'm glad they are over with! (Is that irreverent to say since Christmas is Jesus' birthday?) I missed Johnny more than I thought I would, but I loved the flexibility I had with my schedule and travel plans, and I loved the time I was able to spend with my family. Missing my man didn't stop me from beaming with child-like excitment when I saw my parents' Christmas tree all lit up!


Today was my first day back to work since last Tuesday! I am SO grateful for the time we had off. It was an amazing break from work and I had the opportunity to work on several projects around the house that I've been putting off since...oh...well.....like for a year now!

My New Year's Eve festivities were uneventful!! My mom, grandma and papa arrived at my home at about 9:00 p.m. that night as a pit stop on their trip from Raleigh, NC to FL. My papa's brother (my great uncle) passed away unexpectedly Saturday evening and the funeral was Wednesday afternoon which prompted their NYE travel.

Johnny went on a 5 mile run at 11:45 p.m. NYE with 2 of his buddies to "run in the new year"! He said, "I can finally say I'm coming home this year." Geez, he just makes my heart melt all the time. This picture was taken NYE...


I hope y'all had a blessed holiday season and were able to spend Christmas with those you love!

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Choosing, along with you, to play the Glad Game. Do you remember that? Some would call it being a Pollyanna: finding something to be glad about in a not so happy situation. Romans 8:28 is a good reminder of this: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Remember, too, there is nothing over our head that is not under His feet. Love you!

The Bailey Clan said...

hey amanda-i am glad u had a wonderful christmas. The hardest part is behind you, it is almost count down! I am sorry to hear about your relative, but they are in a much better place than us! Tell Johnny we said "happy holidays" :O) better late than never! Keep smiling and hopefully we will chat soon!