Christmas 2017

So, being home for Christmas meant a lot of knitting, a lot of cooking, a lot of errand running, a lot of decorating, a lot of dishes, a lot of laughter, and a lot of joy. Since I had a lot of stuff going on, I figured a blog update could wait. Here are some of the things I did:

I went on a tour of Dubai and saw the world’s tallest building! Maybe on my last swing through Dubai I’ll take the four hour tour, but this was a nice treat on my way home.

I tried a Christmas tree frape—so nice to be able to go OUT again!

I visited the lake (knitting, not swimming took place!)

I got to see a Christmas balloon glow—very cool.

I got dressed up and went to the symphony; such a treat!

I remembered the Alamo. One of my dear friends was spending Christmas in San Antonio with her family, so I drove down to visit her for a few days. I hadn’t been since I was a teenager, and I had forgotten how small the church was. That old live oak tree was spectacular all wrapped in lights.

I had a wonderful Christmas with my family which included my brother’s hilarious labels, a beautiful pie co-created with my sister, my first macarons, guests, and lots of runs to Wal-Mart. There was a truly spectacular sunset Christmas day.

In knitting news I finished my Crazy Stripes cardigan that I started in the spring—I LOVE IT! It needs a blocking and buttons, and now that I think about it I might have left a few ends in the one sleeve, but it can wait till December when I’m home again. So pretty!

I worked on a Christmas sock while watching The Man Who Invented Chrsitmas and Star Wars: The Last Jedi as well as once I had finished my sweater and gift knitting.

Speaking of The Last Jedi, not perfect, but I sure enjoyed being home and able to see it in theaters! I splurged on a rebel cowl for the occasion; it will come in handy later as an innocent looking scarf when I need to keep my inner nerd quiet.

So, it was a wonderful holiday all in all, and I am so thankful that I got to be home. While there wasn’t a lot of physical rest, it was absolutely much needed soul rest. It was a little difficult having my life in three ‘boxes,’ the ‘enjoying it right now’ box, the ‘need it for my last year overseas’ box, and the ‘future’ box. However, life is seldom easy or tidy, and while this year will be no exception, I’m ready. Ready to finish this chapter and turn a new one. Ready to tackle new projects and learn new skills, and ready to move back home. Okay 2018, bring it on!