A New Christmas

Hello.

As Christmas quickly approached and passed by, I couldn't help but think about how different it would be.

Strictly location based, it wasn't too abnormal.  I got to spend the week before Christmas, Christmas Eve (which I count as a holiday in itself), and Christmas day with my family in Canton.  Now we are spending the next week and a half with the Flinkmen and Flinkwomen in Cissna Park.  (Molly and I agree that this is a better grammatical rendition of the name.)  So, when I look at recent years, this year's location really isn't too wild.

However, then I look down at my hand resting on the keyboard.  And resting on my ring finger, still just a smidgen too big, is the most beautiful gift I've ever been given in my life.  (And I've gotten some really amazing gifts guys- let me remind you of the music box Jered made for me.  Plus, my parents LOVE Christmas and gift giving.)

Anyway, I digress.  So there is my ring.  That is what symbolizes how different this Christmas has been for me.  This year, I got to open presents with my family and my husband on Christmas morning.  I went into Christmas, more content than I had ever been.

Going into the Christmas season, I will admit that I was nervous about how our scheduling would pan out with two families involved now.  I cannot explain how unbelievably blessed I feel that Jered was ok with spending Christmas Eve and day with my family.  As you may know, I'm not a huge fan of change, and not being there for Christmas would have been a biggie.  For as different as this year is, I was able to retain my most cherished traditions, and I even got to share them with Jered.  That was pretty exciting for me.

There's more than just that though.  As I remember last year, obviously the most unexpected proposal fills my head.  Maybe you remember, or maybe you didn't hear the story.  If you haven't, or if you happen to enjoy reminiscing like I do, here is the story.

That's all wonderful, and I will enjoy sharing it for years to come, but there's part of the story I didn't share before.  Shortly after the blissful event and right before our Christmas brunch, Katie and I went upstairs to change out of our church clothes.  We got to her room and just hugged.  Hugged and hugged.

I realize I can't really speak for her, but I have a feeling I'm right.  I think that was hug was filled with joy in both of our hearts.  But I also think there was a sad realization in both of our minds.  Everything was going to be different.  No more sleeping together in my room on Christmas Eves.  "Aimee and Katie" would always be just a little different from now on.

It was different.  That much is certain.  However, experiencing it and reading Molly's Christmas post, it's clear that some change isn't so bad after all.  Our Christmas was wonderful.  Jered had my family in stitches half the time.  Katie and I still had our top of the stairs picture.  Dad and Jered played Wii golf for hours almost every night.  We went to the Festival of Lights.  Mom and I got to Christmas shop together.  And we all spent Christmas Eve watching Christmas cartoons and putting together a puzzle.

Now, we are at Jered's parents' house with most of his family.  Tyler told me he's really glad I'm his aunt.  That made my night obviously.  It's wonderful to officially be part of the family. 

One thing about the Flinkman household you should know- a quiet moment is rare, and therefore, I am having trouble focusing on this right now.  And because of that, I'm heading out for now.  Goodbye for now!

Aim