As soon as Chad walked in the door tonight I fell apart. He listened to me sob about my responsibilities, my weight, my worries, my goals. He encouraged me and complimented me. He listened to me and validated me. He found ways to lighten my load. He took care of me. Then he sent me off to take care of myself.
I often find myself wondering at how I ever made it with out him. He does so much for me and my life is infinitely better and happier with him in it.
The day after Christmas we were able to give Alden a baby blessing in my mom’s ward. Jeff Parry and family came down from Anacortes; Gramma Sophie, Aunt Kim Stabler and Cheryl Meckley came too. Many of the Osborne’s were in town–a family that was our “extended” family all growing up.
Both Jeffs and Chad participated in the blessing. It was so nice to have my whole family in attendance. I do not remember that ever happening before. It was nice to finally have him blessed. It took us six months to make it happen. Now if I could just remember to turn in his membership records…
Mom and I also got to sing a beautiful duet arrangement of “What Child is This.” It was so nice to do it together. Hilary (Osborne) Kruetz played the accompaniment. It was so nice to make music with her again.
We celebrated Christmas at home with John, Renee, Jordyn and Jason the day before we flew up to Seattle. Holidays are sure to become more animated and enjoyable now that Eden is coming of age. We had a lovely time together.
Up in Seattle we took a trip to see Santa Claus. The whole family took turns waiting in line for at least an hour. As soon as we went to take a picture with Santa Eden clung on to Chad for dear life. So we got a family shot instead of one with just the kids.
We had a giant seafood boil for Christmas Eve. That is becoming a fun messy tradition in the Church household.
Some family came over for Christmas day. I started feeling pretty lousy. I went to bed early and missed out on the fun. Too bad.
Eden had a great time discovering each present one at a time. She kept saying “oooh.” Everyone was really generous and thoughtful.