Finally...an update:)

Well, blog friends, it has been a long while since a good update. I must admit...I have had writers block. I just could not put together a good 'blog' post for the life of me! However, after this most wonderful Thanksgiving, I have lots to be thankful for which provides much to write about. First and foremost, I am so thankful for my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He has brought this family through a lot this year and is continuing to do so. He is my ever present Comforter when things seem overwhelming. I am also very thankful for my family. I have been under serious stress lately, and they have stuck by me through thick and thin. My gracious husband deserves a 'husband of the year' award for sure! I just love that we all work together to make each day special! I am also VERY thankful for my house and for two running cars. God is AWESOME!

Despite the stresses of life, my family is gearing up for a fantastic Christmas. Thanksgiving was a great kickoff to our fun filled holidays! Black Friday shopping was great, and I got a whole bunch of stuff crossed of my list. Just a few more things, and the Splan Clan will be ready for the big day! I keep getting 'oh yes...I forgot', 'oh, they need that too', 'oooooh, she needs this for Christmas','oooooooooh he needs that too', 'Im done..no I'm not...yes I am' thoughts that are causing me to come up with a million more ways to spend money this Christmas:) I love spoiling my loved ones and really cannot wait to see their smiling faces when they open gifts. We are very careful to keep the real meaning of Christmas at the forefront of out minds and hearts, but I love the tradition of gift giving. I really don't want to buy for myself...just for EVERYONE I love! It is definitely keeping me busy! Don't get me wrong, I don't spend a lot of money...I just put a lot of thought into each thing and try to spend a few dollars on everyone.

I'm loving the new look of my blog and hope you do too! Enjoy your pre-Christmas days and don't forget the real reason for the season!

Its official....:(

So the final word came today. Josh's newest employer will NOT give us any time to go home and see our families for Christmas. We have been down her for 5 years and have managed to get home every year. Somehow, this company's policy of only allowing 1 unpaid vacation a year managed to slip past us until after our 4th of July trip home. As fun as that was.....I would have traded it for Christmas:( I keep getting little thought bubbles of Scrooge yelling at my husband that he cannot take more than half a day on Christmas....What has happened to the world? I am still praying for a miracle but am also trying to prepare my heart for a MUCH different Christmas this year. The fact still remains that God is good all the time. I will have to remember this as the big day approaches.

The Time Has Once Again Come!

Well the blog stealer is at work again. What can I say, it has become my tradition to do this. :) Today the Splan Clan is decorating their Christmas tree. I do have to say that their tree has been up for a week, but do to a hectic schedule they are just getting the time to decorate it. I am enjoying sitting here listening to Christmas music watching the tree become beautiful. There are two little munchkins here who are so very excited about the changes taking place. I do have to say that for once I am also excited to see this taking place. I am usually so against it before thanksgiving, but this year since our parents cannot come, because of our mom's hip replacement surgery I am so ready for the whole holiday season to get started. :) I know that this year may be different, but I am praying that we all still get to go to Michigan for the wonderful Christmas Holiday.
The lights are on, and Josh is putting up the garland. JJ is jumping up and down with all the energy that he has. Miracle and Holly are sitting watching, waiting for him to finish so they can join in on the fun. Miracle is really hoping for snow, but I think she will have to wait for snow in the great SC for a while. Although I know that she is not the only one hoping that SC will have a BIG snow this year. :)  The ornaments are starting their trek to their home on the tree. The kids have great excitement as they help take ornaments to the tree. I do have to say that I love the magic of this year. Yes, I understand the whole meaning of Christmas is Christ coming for our sins, but it is also that time of the year when everyone seems kinder and happier. I love the anticipation and joy that all can share no matter where you are. Yes, the stores will be crazier, but that is all part of the experience. I hope that you all take time this year to enjoy what Christ has done and the special time with your family. Take time to be thankful for all those wonderful memories that you are getting to make this year.  Have a happy Thanksgiving and A VERY Merry Christmas!