Merry Christmas and so much more

Whew! What a wonderful Christmas celebration we have had the last few days (we still have more to come Molly!). It has been really nice to have something to focus on aside from all of the health issues surrounding our family.
First, Lucas and I conquered the mighty task of putting together a kitchen for Eliza. It nearly killed us after 3 days agonizing in the garage (a.k.a. Santa's workshop) over which screw to use, re-doing many of the steps and "discussing" which way a board was supposed to go. I just hope it lasts through our kids and grandkids :) Here is the finished product:

Our first celebration started off on Christmas Eve with going over to visit Lucas's Grandma Sue. She is always so much fun as she is chatty and laughs a ton (hmmm, reminds me of someone else I know). Eliza always enjoys playing and talking with Grandma.

Next came my Dad and Karen and a joint effort with a yummy dinner at our house. It was my goal to cook my second turkey ever and make a berry creme brulee. It turned out quite well.

Mmmm, ice cream and Karen's creme brulee

This picture and video is for Aunt Katie. Eliza is so proud to call herself an official Walmart shopper in training now...

We had fun watching Eliza buzz around the house after opening all the gifts. Thank you Dad and Karen for a wonderful evening!

Next came Christmas morning! I was so excited I couldn't wait for Eliza to wake up. Mom came over to watch the gift opening. Here is Eliza coming out of her bedroom to see what Santa brought her (minus a few detours along the way: 1. slide, 2. camera 3. Grandma Pam).

My brothers and I used to make fun of our family pictures of mom in her p.j.'s and bathrobe on Christmas morning...payback now.

Larry came by later and we finished opening presents. Soon it was time to pack up the family and head to Lucas's Dad and Grandma's house for brunch. We are waiting for Molly to get home from the hospital to do our celebration with them. It was hard not having our traditional Christmas day with the Babins and McCabes but I guess it makes you not take anything for granted. After eating we went to the hospital to visit Molly and the McCabes. She looks just as beautiful as ever and is hopefully going home in the next day or so.

After taking a brief rest, we ended the evening at Shelley's (Larry's daughter) and had yet another delicious meal followed by entertainment provided by the kids.

Building a fort with Emma and Andy. Eliza mostly fired off directions to everyone.

Can you tell Eliza is in a kissing phase!

Thank you!

How fortunate we are to have enjoyed the fun, food, gifts and love of our family these last few days.

The awareness of this gratitude I believe, started for me 5 years ago on Christmas, after my brother Erik was diagnosed with his brain tumor. The experience stopped me in my tracks and changed me as a person forever. He is the prime example of how you can make the most out of your situation no matter what life throws you. Next year, when he has officially reached his 5 years after completing his treatment we are going to celebrate big time!

I have also come to realize how grateful I am when friends and family reach out to you. I have been the recipient of meals, cards, phone calls, emails, flowers, many offers of help of Eliza, help around the house, beautiful and thoughtful gifts, coffee and breakfast dates (you know the way to my heart!) and countless other things that make life so much sweeter when it is trying to bring you down.

My dear Lucas has been such a huge support system for me and I can't thank him enough. "In sickness and in health" has hit us a lot sooner than we had both imagined. He encourages me everyday after I have become discouraged in trying to move forward with my treatment. He holds my hand during doctor appointments and takes in what I am not able to process at that time. He coaches me emotionally and physically through my intense arm and leg spasms. He is the most loving and helpful father. He is my best friend and partner.

Thank you all for making 2008 yet another amazing year in our life.