Lessons at Christmas

Christmas has come and gone and now we’re in the re-couping phase. For us, it’s always a whirlwind of family parties (let me just say the hubby has just under 50 first cousins and probably close to 75ish second cousins, so it’s always crazy), and traveling around the great state of Michigan. It’s a wonderful time of year, but I’m also glad it’s over and we can focus on plans for 2012.

We learned a lot this Christmas:

1. No matter how prepared I think I am, I always have to purchase something on Christmas Eve Day. Thankfully, the items I needed could be bought at Rite Aid so I could avoid the big box stores and dreadfully long lines.
2. We need a bigger vehicle. Good thing the hubby and I only asked for money. If we had presents, they wouldn’t of fit in our car. Little K got spoiled by the family per usual, so her things took up most of the space.
3. Due to all of her said presents, again I promise myself to never go overboard. We only have 1,500 sq. ft. of house and a near-full basement. There’s only so many places to put her toys.
4. Do they even make toys that don’t make noise ? There’s a slew of new toys at our house…and the majority of them make sounds. She loves them, but they drive us nuts. We won’t be buying any moving forward…we’ll leave that to everyone else!
5. The recycling man probably hates us. Our toy cardboard make take up more than its fair share of space in the truck.
6. The smallest of gifts can have the largest impact. K got a Slinky from the $1 section from Target. She is in love with it! 
7. I understand why everyone gains a few pounds…booze and sweets are essential for getting through the stress of the season.
8. Our sleeping schedules get WAY off during the holidays. Little K has decided it’s overrated to go to bed before 11 p.m. thanks to being out late with family. We had just gotten her back on track when Christmas chaos started. We’re off track again. Some new teeth coming in probably doesn’t help matters.
9. Watching K open presents (or play with wrapping paper) has got to be up there with the cutest things I’ve ever witnessed.
10. Despite all the negative lessons I’ve posted here, I’m feeling extremely grateful for the love and kindness of family…and for a very happy little one!

Hope you all had a beautiful Christmas…or whatever holiday you celebrated. Cheers to 2012 and a reason for a fresh start…and many days before the Christmas chaos starts again!

Did you learn any important lessons this holiday season?