Just because

I have nothing of importance to say, I just haven't blogged in a while and figured if I didn't get a picture on here soon, my mother would start having withdrawal symptoms. (Love ya Mom.)
But I will tell you a little about how I spent my Christmas vacation. First of all, do I not have the most beautiful kids in my family? This is, clockwise from top left, Elizabeth, Lauralie, Izabell, and Ben Able. Of course the one with her tongue out belongs to me. I tried to dress her like a pretty little girl, but it didn't mean that she had to act like one.
So on Christmas, I got to see my family and eat a lot, which is always fun.
Then, on my birthday, I went back to Grandma's and got my cake. I got my very own cake this year, but it was just a guilt gift. She didn't get to come to Izabell's birthday party in October, so this is how she got herself out of trouble. I know there is probably some kind of rule against giving Grandma a hard time, but it was so fun. Anyway, she knows I love her. So we went out to eat lunch and then went to Hobby Lobby. Anyone who knows me, my grandma, or my step-daughter knows how dangerous it is for us to go into Hobby Lobby. But we did risk it and only one of us spent too much money.
Then, the next day, Kathy took Lisa, Spring, and me out to lunch and gave us a very special gift. She has taken us on as mentees and given us all daily devotional Bibles. I am very excited to read it. I am even more excited to get her thoughts and insights. I have decided to keep a binder with all of her e-mails on this topic. (So be careful what you say, Kathy. I will have proof of everything).
I spent New Years Day with a very close friend. She and I were like sisters and then spent many years apart. Now, because of changes that we have both made in our lives, and God's grace, mercy and planning, we have reunited. The best part- It feels like we were never apart. Oh, and Izabell loves her, too.
Okay, to end this vacation, I spent yesterday with my step-daughter and her mother. We had a girls day out and took Rachel to Merle Norman to get her first make-up. Wow. The whole time I kept thinking, "Lord, help me when Izabell gets to this age." (And I honestly pray that prayer daily.) After she got her make-up, we went to Brick Oven for pizza. Wow. What a nice day. Am I blessed or what? How many women can spend a day with her husband's ex and have a great time?
So, I had a great vacation. It's all over tomorrow. But that's okay, because I miss my kids so much. Some more than others. But it will be great to get back to real life. I am afraid that any more vacation could ruin me.