Christmas and the New Year

Christmas was definitely different this year. It was different in many ways...some were planned and some were unplanned. We had planned a lot of baking for my sister, Mom and I to do, crafts and cookies for the kids, games to play and so much more. Most of it didn't happen. Most of the family ended up getting sick with a stomach virus which changed our plans and our menu! Corban went down for bed the night before Christmas Eve and woke up in the middle of the night throwing up so I was up most of the night with him. He is actually still sick but I think he is starting to get better. I'm pretty excited for that! It is tiring taking care of a sick toddler.

In spite of all of the changes we had a good time with family. Corban enjoyed being with his cousins. He loves being around other kids and seemed fascinated by them! It reminds me every time that we are together that there is another child missing. It may seem odd to those who haven't experienced loss, but seeing all the children of the family is a wonderful thing but also a painful reminder of the one who isn't there and should be. As we lined all the kids up in front of the fireplace for a picture I couldn't help but think about it. There were 4 little cousins, dressed in their sock monkey pj's that Mimi made, and one little one missing. 3 little boy monkeys and only one little girl monkey. There should be another little girl sock monkey sitting there with them. The gap between my youngest nephew (3) and Corban (19 months) is the space where Callie falls. I don't know if that will ever go away. I love having all of the family together but long for the day when the family will be complete with Callie Grace there with us.

We look forward to the new year and the joy that comes along with it. Very soon, about 6 weeks or so, our newest addition will join us.
Blessings to you in the new year.