I worked for days getting everything just so. The house was festive and tidy. It smelled of roast pork, chili, and cinnamon rolls, and everything came out together and perfectly. Our first to guests arrived precisely at 1:00 as scheduled. The Former Mrs. FixIt and the daughter she so generously shares with me were dressed in their holiday finest. We knew our son and his family would not be coming because of Covid, so we sat and talked and nibbled on fudge and cookies while I put the finishing touches on the meal. I made the frosting for the cinnamon rolls, then we took our drinks to the living room and chatted.

After nearly an hour, we started wondering where everyone was. We couldn’t reach our grandson and his girlfriend, but we reached our granddaughter and she had totally forgotten today was the party. They quickly got ready and came on out. We had to make it quick because our granddaughter had to work last night. We enjoyed the good food and had fun exchanging gifts. And before we knew it, they were off and on their way home. TFMF and daughter stayed on and we had so much fun chatting and nibbling through the afternoon. Then, when it was clear the sun would be setting soon, they too went home…loaded down with lots of food and goodies and gifts. 

We make plans and God laughs and laughs. We have no real control when it comes to the schedules or attendance of others. Our grandson’s girlfriend texted us later in the evening and apologized profusely. They had to take the kids back to their mom’s and they laid down “for just a minute” and three hours later, they awoke to my text. Our grandson doesn’t have to head back to work till sometime next week so we will get together with them for dinner at their house in the next couple of days.

I was so organized this year. By the time I had the food ready to serve, all the cooking utensils were washed and put away. I felt so calm and in control because there was no last minute rushing around. It was all so easy and laid back and that added to the joy.

And, here we are at the end of another year and it’s just so hard to believe how quickly the time goes. Our little great granddaughter hugged me when she got there and said, “Hey, Gigi! I’m SIX!!!” What??? You were just a newborn. She reminds me how long I’ve been a part of this family. The first time I met the Former Mrs. FixIt, this little great-grand was a newborn.

Getting a head start on Christmas 2024…knitted Gingerbread Boys ornaments!

Looking back over the past year, I am pleased with where I am today. I’m more fit, healthy, weigh less…all of which has improved my mental health. I can’t remember the last time I had an anxiety reaction. I sleep better, I’m happier, and overall, I think I’m a better person than I was heading into the year.

We have a fresh new year in front of us. Some of how it turns out is beyond our control, but we can still affect our environments…inner and outer. Maintaining good relationships, leaving more than we take, spreading love and kindness, being good stewards of what we have been given all help us live a happier and healthier life.

I always choose a word to focus on for the new year. My word for 2023 was CHANGE and boy, howdy…I pulled that one off in spades! I’ve been thinking about my focus word for the coming year and rather than choose just one, I’ve chosen a phrase…

USE IT UP!!!

I have SO much stuff here at the house. This year I am going to use my stash before I buy one more thing. I’m going to dive into my art and use up some of my supplies. I want to look around at what we have and find ways of repurposing and sending it out to others to bring beauty into the world. I want to use up every minute of every day in a way that both gives and brings joy. 

Lastly, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for hanging out with me here this past year. I might have quit this blog a long time ago if it wasn’t for you’re love and support along the way. My prayers are with you all for a wonderful, happy, and healthy 2024.

⌛️

”The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.“

Proverbs 16:9 ESV