These last six weeks

Six weeks ago, it was the Sunday beginning our Thanksgiving break.  Andrew arrived home with his mother, and we were kicking off the beginning of the holiday joy.  There are only two of the last six Mondays where I had to work the next day, and on one of those, I was pretty sure it would only be one day before a snow day (I was right).  In the last six weeks, we have had 12 school days.  That feels pretty darn good.

We still have tomorrow off, but then Tuesday we go back to work and the students will arrive on Wednesday.  There is no snow in sight, so it will be all in.  To be honest, I'm not terribly sad to be going back to work.  I love my job (but I'm just NOT a morning person...and ironically I have the earliest report time at the office), and of course I need a paycheck.  I think what I'm most sad about is that the holidays are coming to an end.  It truly is the most wonderful time of the year!  My MIL wasn't here as much as she has been in past years, and at age 86, we can't ever be certain that next year she'll be here.  I loved having all the kids here.  Catherine has let us know that next year, her boyfriend's family is planning a week-long trip.  And of course, it is nearly certain that this was my Grandmother's last Christmas.  Oh, the memories of Christmas with her are so treasured, but I suspect she will love Christmas in Heaven next year with her parents, all her siblings, and of course Grandpa and my dad.

Life is good.  I do not fail to see that.  I love my job, and I am grateful for it, but there is a big part of me that still wishes it was six years ago.  I would love to get to do the holidays all over again.  I am so grateful for the time we had together and the memories we made!