I love Christmas time!

The cold air has blown in, even a few snow flurries this morning. All our Christmas shopping is done with gifts under the tree and all wrapped. The decorations are in place and I sip on some apple cider every evening...just to keep me in the spirit. Last weekend we had my company Christmas party. Beforehand, we met a group of people at The Palm for drinks (and, yes, they had water) then went over to party. It was a fun dinner and dancing at the downtown Hilton in Nashville...seeing as I was unable to partake in the open bar this year, I was also unable to participate in the dancing. Rodney and I finally had to bow out around 10 p.m. because the belly was sinking and getting tired. I've attached a picture of us all dressed up.

For those of you who have been concerned about my health...here's the update. They discovered that the baby has made me very anemic which was partly why I was feeling so bad. They have put me on iron supplements which has increased my energy levels tremendously. However, I start feeling too good, then I do too much, then I start having contractions again....so I have to keep reminding myself to take it easy which is hard for someone who truly values their independence and hates to ask others for help. Rodney has been a big help....he's doing laundry, making runs to the grocery, cooking dinner, rubbing my aching back and walking me through the breathing exercises when the contractions hit. (The pain can be pretty intense, but goes away in about 30 minutes when the pills kick in which stops the contractions.) The doctors are still saying we have a Valentine's due date...but I already have our bags packed and by the door, just in case....you can't ever be too prepared. So far mommy and baby are both feeling good and looking forward to Christmas!!!

I've attached a few holiday pictures...

This is us all dressed up for my company Christmas party. Ever try to find a flattering dress when you're toting a soccer ball on your tummy and a "few" extra pounds on your hips?

I swear I don't torture her everyday...but she's so cute in her little outfit. This is her "I hate you, mommy" look....usually she smiles and wags her tail.

Rodney and his mom in front of her tree, and her dog, Scarlett.

If you look really close, you can see little specks of snow....Gracie was the only thing the flurries showed up on.