Since the days of my youth, I’ve been waiting to have the perfect Christmas. I’ve always loved the “mystery” of Santa and the joy of the holiday season…even well into my teens! I (obviously) enjoy getting presents, baking and listening to Christmas music. I love giving gifts to people without getting anything back.

And each year since the birth of my daughter, I keep thinking it will be THE YEAR of the PERFECT CHRISTMAS – and each year I’m left with a slightly bitter taste in my mouth, from spoiled expectation.

Well this year, I’m positive it’s THE YEAR!

Here’s why:

• I’ve cut out all the negative and not-so-nice people in my life, so I’m less stressed by the over-dramatic who-ahhh they call life.
• I’m re-connecting with people who make me feel grounded and full of love.
• I’m happy – I’m fat, sure…ok…overweight – but I’m happy {as I munch away on chips and dip!}
• I have a relatively organized house, a car in great working condition, food in my fridge and clothes on my back.
• I have a husband that loves me regardless of said “fatty-fat-fat” conditions.
• My BEAUTIFUL daughter is almost three years old and GETS Christmas this year (ie: letter writing to Santa, playing in the snow, wrapping presents, cookies and milk, saying “Merry Christmas”, baking and singing cheesey Christmas carols Chipmunk style!)
• We’re staying at my In-Laws overnight so that we can all wake up and open presents together on Christmas morning – which is so exciting because of the above point!!
• I have a tree that you can tell my daughter decorated. I let her choose practically every spot for every ornament – because it really IS about her and not the way my tree looks anymore.
• I’m just feeling super blessed. I’ve had a hard year of loss, making hard decisions and barely keeping my head afloat – things are taking a turn and I feel really good about the upcoming  months!!