Christmas overload.

Via

Do you know what this is? This is your brain on Christmas overload. This is what Christmas vomit looks like.

I actually did vomit yesterday. I have a touch of the flu- or perhaps, Christmas poisoning.

As I'm under the weather and about to go into retirement community hibernation in SRQ for the next few days, I'll be letting this little blog-outlet go silent until the 5th when we return to the Chicago tundra.

Stay warm & healthy,

SMB

Leftover bonanza!

Obviously from yesterday’s post, I’m feeling a little bit ‘stormed’. Today is a catch up day.

I’ve got an emotional hangover.

This picture is of my amazing cooking skills I pulled together last night. Aka- none. I just put all the leftovers we had into the microwave and then moved them to the table. We were full, which is what counts, right?

Hope my bummer post yesterday didn’t scare anyone away. I just want to ride this stress out and end up at the beach next Thursday.

That’s right, the beach. Next Thursday. Sarasota, Florida. Woohoo. We’re going down with some of my fam- going to stay at my parent’s place that is in a retirement community. Super hopping, parties every night. Just kidding.

Anyone have suggestions on how to celebrate 2011 while staying in a retirement community?? Hehe

Well, I’m not working tomorrow or through the weekend, so no blog posts. I hope everyone has a safe and blessed Christmas.

He is the reason for the season,

SMB

Do you ever feel like your life is one big cloudy sky? You go in and out of rays of sunshine, and freeze while the sun is behind the clouds? Sometimes I worry that I’m not ‘sane’ enough. Like how do you have such highs and lows? I need something to stabilize me, or at least a greenhouse to trap the heat in.

Enough of that scenario, but really- the highs and lows in my life lately have been a lot to handle. I recognize that life can’t be all chocolate and champagne; I just need a little solidity.

Maybe after the holidays right?

Maybe after I uproot my little life here in Chicago?

Maybe after AJB graduates from HBS?

Maybe after we decide to start a family?

Maybe never.

Right? I would like to find that peace now. I want to have the confidence that we’re pushing through the lows, to better appreciate the highs. I need to have faith that I’ll be carried through the valleys. I need to have faith there will be the mountains.

I am working on that.

I am working on trusting- God, AJB, my family, my friends, my co-workers, my nothings [in that order].

I don’t know exactly where to start. I feel a little like the scenario pictured above- I’m passing through a snow storm. I can’t quite even see my puppy in front of me, but I’m holding onto the leash. I’m holding onto promises. I’m holding on to my sanity. I’m holding on to faith.

End sob story,

SMB

So last night’s date was a success. I just love quality time with AJB. He’s an incredible thoughtful man.

Want to know what he isn’t?

A shopper.

Not one bit. He is one of those dudes that sits there in the chairs in stores, looks bored out of his mind, and doesn’t even try to hide it. I try to be patient with his ‘tude, but I can’t help but feel it’s a little selfish. I am not a big shopper. [to be completely honest, most of my work clothes my mom buys me- she IS a shopper].  He really has no reason to complain. It’s a good thing I love him, because he tests my patience when we’re at the mall. I was freaking Christmas shopping for crying out loud! It would be a totally different story if I wandered around the store, picking up random things, trying them on, etc etc.

But I’m not.

[end rant]

Overall, we had a great night. We’re 99.9% done with our shopping. We had an amazing meal.

We had a great time together.

Anyone have advice on how to deal with the shopping bum?

Wrapping gifts with wine tonight- yay!

3 sleeps ‘til Christmas,

SMB

Who's ready??

I'm not!!

But I will be- I'm very close. AJB and I are headed for a date night/shopping completion trip. I'm so excited to spend the evening with him.

I need a cute wrapping ideas for my gifts. I have the kraft paper rolls, which I love because they're recycled. So I was thinking, fun ribbon, maybe I'd even use large bow tie pasta to make it a little 'me'... is that cheesy?

Well, it's been a typical Monday. There's a rumor that we're due for a snowstorm this evening- we'll see. I would prefer the snow to come after I get back to Ohio. I just can't wait to spend Christmas with my precious little nephews, all my new brothers, my wonderful sisters, my indulgent parents, and of course- my absolutely amazing husband.

He makes me so freaking happy. Alright, I'm out. I can't concentrate- I'm so excited to have some q.t. with him tonight!

Kissies,

SMB

Woohoo

Well friends, I've survived one of the most stressful weeks of my life. This was emotional exhaustion, not the physical or mental, like others have been.

I'm so glad it's over.

Now, I'm just going to have a jam-packed weekend of:

• Hosting 7 people for a dinner party tonight (and no, I'm not ready)
• The In-Laws are coming to town- for one side of AJB's family Christmas in the 'burbs
• Our church Christmas lunch! Can't wait! It's at Sappori- YUMM
• Sunday dinner with one of our fave couple friends.

Don't get me wrong- parts of this are going to be AWESOME, but where's the rest/sleep/couch time??

Gotta run, time to roast those chickens (ew).

Happy Friday!

SMB

And they're live...

AJB and I sent out our first Christmas card. I was nervous no one would care- but we've had so many compliments on it. It just makes me so happy! I love our engagement pictures. They make me so happy. They were done by the amazing Kim Postma- who I think is one of the most universally talented people I know AND a wonderful mother!

I found the design and printed them through Minted, which was wonderful. I can't wait to have another excuse to use their services.

So, here is my wish to all of you out there in bloggy land- a wonderful holiday season where you feel the love of your friends, family and most of all the amazing Lord whose grace makes everyday here worthwhile.

Feeling the blessings and respecting the reason for the season,

SMB