24 weeks!

After this weekend we are definitely ready for the Holidays!  I can't believe next year we'll have our first Christmas with our baby boy.  Matt and I have both been talking about traditions and how we want to celebrate Christmas with our own family.  As you know, we're not exactly ones to celebrate the Christ in Christmas, but still value the holidays as a special time to celebrate.  To us Christmas is about being appreciative for what you have, from family and friends to good health, while doing something to help others that aren't so lucky.  It's about spending time with loved ones, playing games, eating yummy cookies, and playing in the snow.  I feel sad when I see the focus for children being on what toys they are going to get and a me, me, me attitude.  Don't even get me started on commercialism!  Mass quantities of gifts, while thoughtful and provide immediate gratification, do not equal love. 

One tradition we've started as a couple is to participate in the Adopt-A-Family program through the City of Phoenix.  This was our 3rd year, and once again we were so happy to make Christmas a little bit more special for a family.  We start our tradition by going shopping, which is both fun to do together and a reality check.  These families want items like towels, cleaning supplies, sheets, and other items that most of us take for granted.    After shopping we come home and wrap the presents, while having some wine/beer and watching a movie.  Yesterday, we delivered the presents to the family - which is always a special experience.  We drove to a "bad" area of town and met a huge Hispanic family that you could tell was close as can be and worked together to support one another.  The children were so excited, and the mother was quietly grateful.  This year, we both talked about how meaningful it will be to take our little one shopping and let him pick out toys and clothing for another child that needs the items much more than he does.  I hope each and every one of you find a way, no matter how big or small, to give to someone in need this year!

On another note - we had a gorgeous weekend and I enjoyed Prenatal Yoga on Saturday and a 6 mile run on Sunday in sunny, 70 degree weather!  Love Arizona this time of year!  I'm still feeling great and happy to be out and active.

 

On Friday, we head home to Michigan for a few days and hope to make the 4 hour drive to Madison, Wisconsin (unpredictable lake effect weather permitting!) for a few days as well.  Merry Christmas everyone!!