I started this day at 6:30am trying to be one of the first to check-in online for our Southwest flight on the 26th. And if you know that you can check in up to 24 hours in advance, then you have figured out we depart at 6:25 am. Crazy, I know. Thinking about it now, I am trying to remember why I picked that flight…I know there was a good reason. Alyssa woke about 7:15 and had to be patient for a good hour before Meg woke and we were ready for her to go downstairs. She was so anxious to see what Santa had left her in her stocking that she missed the giant doll house on the ground. She and Meg played with that for a bit, then we had breakfast and opened some more gifts.

Then I began what will hence forth be known as “Our First Christmas.” Our first Christmas in TN and my first Christmas lunch. I am pleased to say that it was all fabulous and even the girls enjoyed it. It was great to have my husband helping, adding his input [he reminded me the turkey needing seasoning] and most of all doing the clean-up. I am so lucky to have a wonderful husband to share these experiences with. Choosing to be away from family for Christmas Day was hard, but we made it special because we were together.

So now the kitchen is clean, bellies are full, one is napping… and I will begin another daunting task. Remove the tree before we leave and pack up the family for a 4:45 am departure tomorrow. Merry Christmas to all.