Where are you, Christmas?

Typically, the holiday season truly is "the most wonderful time of the year" for me. I love the lights, the gift giving/receiving, the stories, that "gingerbread feeling," the focus on Christ, etc etc. Not to mention, Rory and I fell in love during Christmas time.

This year, however, my enthusiasm for the holiday season has been sub-par. I'm not quite a Grinch or an Ebenezer, I don't think... more like Cindy Lou Who from the 2000 version of The Grinch Who Stole Christmas, who asked, "Where are you, Christmas? Why can't I find you?" Unlike Cindy, I have a pretty clear idea as to why there is very little "jingle all the way" for me.

Work has been INSANE. We've been booked out for photo sessions for over a month and will continue to be booked out clear up until the last week of December. I catch myself saying all the time, "I can't wait until Christmas is over!" Bah-humbug, indeed! Last week, my attitude started to bother me.

Luckily, I have a wonderful husband who recognized my "Bah-humbug" attitude, and suggested that we get a Christmas tree. Decorating our first Christmas tree together as a married couple did wonders for my spirits. Yesterday, we decided to participate in our ward's "Angel Tree" and give a gift to a child in need. I also watched the First Presidency Christmas Devotional last night. I'm happy to report that my holiday spirit barometer is creeping towards full!

What brings the Christmas spirit into your life?

We Went to San Diego...

and I wanted to cry the day we came back. (Be advised: the following contains images of a highly enjoyable vacation. If you do not wish to see others warm and happy, do not continue reading.)

A really bad picture of the really darling beach house Rory's parents rented for Thanksgiving.

The McHardy family. I think my favorite thing about this picture is that Rory looks like he's wearing a headdress. And for that reason, I shall never be able to take this picture seriously.

I like this picture- motion blur and all.

These are Rory's legs- not mine. Just wanted to get that out there. Also, this was only Rory's second trip to the beach in his entire life. ENTIRE LIFE, people!!!

One (of the many) highlights for me was when Rory and I took the beach cruisers out. I want one. Though somehow I don't think riding along the icy potholes of Orem will have the same therapeutic effect as riding along the beach...

Action shot!

This is Carson. Carson is two and I love him.

Carson (pointing to a treat): "I want one."

Paul: "You'll have to ask your mom."

Carson (persistently): "Please, can I have one?"

Paul: "Sorry, bud- you have to ask your mom."

Carson: "... I want to ask Rachel."

So nice to get out and play!

6o degrees in NOVEMBER!!!

And that is why I wanted to cry the day we came back.