Cutty

Hahaha.  I know this is such a self-serving post.  Sorry.  Not really. As I shop for everyone else's gifts, I am reminded of the things I would really appreciate getting. Because you know, at this age, we rarely get the gifts we really want to receive. We deserve to get something we like, every once in a while. I really do not mind receiving a really nice cookbook. I also wouldn't mind a shopping credit in my favorite stores.  I always appreciate piece of clothing or a pair of shoes or some YL essential oils. Lastly, I would really appreciate it if I got any of these. How about you?  What's on your list?  I hope you get to tick off one item from your list.  

As much as I do not love the rush, the heavy traffic, the expenses and mindless eating that comes with this season, it is still my most favorite time of year.  It seems that everyone is in a good mood.  People do not mind the busyness of the season. For a decade now, our Christmases are always spent with our extended families.  It has always been a big, happy gathering though short.  We'd spent the first few hours of  Christmas eve with my husband's side of the family.  The remaining part of the evening will be with my side of the family. Christmas morning is difficult because we still have to wake up early for Christmas Day mass and brunch.   My eldest is 12 years old now and my children have been used to that arrangement.  Maybe, when we're older, we'd change this tradition. This year I introduced something new.  I initiated a bible reading session before bedtime.  We'd read one chapter before our evening prayers.  Hopefully, this will make us spiritually-rea