Best Christmas Ever

Yes, this has been the best Christmas/Christmas break ever. I was able to do everything I wanted to do and even stay at home longer and actually spend Christmas with my family instead of on an airplane! As I walked through the airport yesterday and heard Christmas music playing from the different restaurants my heart literally hurt to think of leaving. When I heard that they were looking for volunteers to leave on the 26th I practically ran up to the desk. When they told me they wouldn't need me to stay and said I had to get on the plane I sobbed. When they apologized for making a mistake and told me they would, in fact, need me to fly out the next day I practically ran back up the ramp to the desk. When they gave me a $400 airline voucher to fly anywhere anytime I want in the next year I officially knew that I am blessed.

I really didn't think it would be hard for me to leave on Christmas. Our big family thing is a few days before Christmas but then I realized I LOVE the low key, hang outey Christmas day at my Aunt & Uncle's house. Saying goodbye to everyone was very difficult. But surprising them when I came back was even better! There were wonderful reactions all around and lots of smiles. Which reminded me, once again, why I love my family so much. I love being somewhere that I feel like I am enough. Where I don't worry that people are going to get angry at me for nothing or judge me because I'm not just like them. I felt complete joy the entire time I was there last night. I loved talking with my cousin Tommy. I've always loved talking to him but he is so grown up now and we have really wonderful conversations! He is a really great kid. I loved hanging out with Jason too, oh ticklish Jason. They are both such kind and loving people and I really enjoy being with them.

As I was leaving last night I gave my Uncle a hug and he said, "See, this is why you go to church! Things like this happen." I couldn't agree more. My prayers were answered yesterday and I had my own little Christmas miracle. Seriously, best Christmas ever.

My whole trip has been fabulous. I had a great time with Jen, Heather & Laura. I loved being in the temple with them and then seeing another friends mom, who we haven't seen in many years, as we walked into the dressing room. Before I even connected in my mind who I was seeing I was completely filled with warmth. When my eyes caught up with my spirit I understood why. It felt wonderful to see sweet Sister Chon in such a special place and while I was with 3 other girls that I grew up with. At that moment I felt like I was exactly in the right place.

I even travelled a little bit! I went to visit my Joanie & her family the day after I got here and it was just as I hoped. I loved talking with Joanie and Joshua, cuddling with her cute cute little boy and receiving shy smiles from her cute cute little girl from across the room. It is always fun to see what your friends are like as parents and Joanie is definitely one of the best. Her kiddos are smart, social, funny and very very loved. They are a great family, thanks for letting me spend a few hours with you! I love you all!
The next day I had a sleepover in PA with my bestie Corinnie! Oh man! I wish we lived closer. I loved just hanging out, making cookies, watching movies & looking at old pictures. I felt completely comfortable in her home. I love that she is married to John, not only because he's a fantastic guy for her but because I knew him during my teenage years and it is always really fun to see him and to feel comfortable because I don't worry if he'll like me or not. I haven't laughed that hard in a long time (oh those pictures corinnie...) and was desperately sad to leave. I wish I could have stayed a few more days.

There is more to come, a few pictures, a few videos and maybe more cheesey cheese about the best Christmas ever. I'm blessed, and now I feel ready to go back to my family in Utah, all of them. Sare, Jerr & Austin, who I really do miss a lot. Especially my sister who allowed me to whine to her and call her often while I have been home because it has been a bit emotionally confusing for me. And back to my friends who are my family that I missed, even after just a few days.