The Kinzirella: Christmas 2010... Is Over

     All in all, I feel that Christmas with my family went very well. We had lots of food, laughter, and moments to bond. I still cannot believe how old my brothers are. I feel sad when I look at Breydi and his lack of desire to do anything productive with his life. At the same time, I can see how he could feel stuck. He made an interesting comment today when they boys came by the house to eat lunch and for a last HOORAH before heading back to Idaho. I told them that in the future, I would appreciate it if they would communicate their plans with me. I was not sure when they would be coming over and so was in bed asleep when they did show up. Breydi said that with mom, it doesn't matter what plans they make because if they aren't her plans, they won't happen. I fear that they will live their life as mom wants them to instead of how they want to and will end up miserable. I want to know what to do to help them and at the same time have them plan their own lives.
     We played so many fun games and ate terrific food. On Christmas Eve we had Desert Dinners. We tried to go all out and get lots of different nuts, dried fruit, cheese, crackers, etc so there would be something for everyone. At the same time, I tried to watch what was eaten so I would know what to stick to for next time. I do not think the various nuts were a hit and neither were the papaya spears. It was good having two types of meat though. And Mori finished off the whole box of goldfish crackers. And note: although the pomegranates are fun to have, they do make a mess. Perhaps next time I'll try pomegranate juice.
     I am so very grateful for my husband. I love him so much for allowing my family to come to our home and hang out; that he helped with cooking and cleaning; that he presided in our home. I wish I was better at doing the things he wanted, such as with celebrating birthdays and Christmas as he wants them done. I made a gift to Jesus this year to give Steve a proper birthday celebration. I suggested we spend his birthday in Salem with his family. He thinks I'm just trying to get out of decorating and getting him a cake. I honestly think he would have a great time with his family. I know how much he misses them and I want to make it up to him that we didn't spend either of the major holidays with his family. Unless if he tells me otherwise, I really will push to be with his family for his birthday. I do think I'd like to get a hotel at least for his birthday night.