It's Christmas Time Again...

Hello,

I know that I haven't written in a while.. It has been really crazy around here. So, let me start from the beginning. Thanksgiving was great... Jeff and I decorated the house with Christmas decor before my parents came into town. Knowing that they wouldn't be coming for Christmas, I wanted them to see the house all decorated. The house is beautiful if I say so myself. Thanksgiving was a lot of fun, had a great time with my parents, lots of shopping, didn't have to take care of Maddie a whole lot since the grandparents took over. They really seemed to enjoy every little thing that they got to join in on. Madison learned how to stick her tongue out thanks to my dad. She, now, sticks her tongue out at me and then smiles right after. haha.. If she wasn't so darn cute, I might actually ground her for the first time since daddy is the one who normally does it. After my parents left, it was time to start on Christmas cards, shopping for all of the family kids and such. That was making me go insane. I always thought that Christmas shopping was fun until this year when there were so many kids to do. Who knew it took so much work and effort into that. We finally got cards and big boxes in the mail. That was a huge relief off of my shoulders and I am sure that Jeff was glad to not have to wrap any more presents. lol.

I got a cold and then, unfortunately, I passed it on to Jeff and Maddie. Jeff got better a lot quicker than I did and poor Maddie was very congested. I made an appointment for her because of her cold and her well-baby 4 month appt. Because this blog is read by family and close friends, I will share this bit of information. For those of you who read this and do not know already, Maddie has a heart blockage. She is considered a level three of seriousness which is the highest you can get. Jeff and I took it really hard and could not believe what had just happened. It was supposed to be a routine appt and we ended up seeing a cardiologist. Four hours later, we walked out of the hospital and not even knowing what to say. We found out a week ago today. We have decided that we are no longer going to Germany in January. We have canceled our tickets and our resort reservations.

With that said, I have been reminded on how precious life is and how each day is a gift and should not be taken for granted. I have become more thankful for my husband, daughter, and family more than I could have ever imagine. It brought Jeff and I closer when I thought that we couldn't get closer. I thank God everyday for giving me another chance to live and hear my daughter's laugh each day.

On another note, I have two more weeks of school. It can not come soon enough. Christmas is so close and I am beyond excited for Madison's first Christmas. It will be a Christmas to never forget.. Well I am going to get off my soapbox for now.. Hope everyone is doing good and has a GREAT Christmas and Happy New Year!

Love,

Lori