It was a beautiful day. I didn't even have to drive as my brother picked Mum up and then came on to my place and picked me up. So nice!
Lucy made a gorgeous pavlova plus we had Mum's plum pudding.
We had such a nice time. The kids were all so excited and happy.
Guess what my brother gave me for Christmas? About 5 kilos of steak!
It's huge! I need to get to this and slice it and freeze portions. It is going to last me a long time, a great gift!
We also had a Christmas lunch at my place last Sunday with Chloe's family.
For the kids we called it a Christmas party an they could open their presents from us so we could enjoy seeing their reactions.
Tom and I had a secret plan. He was going to say Grace for the whole family. He was very excited and thought Nana Pat would be heaps impressed.
When it came to be time for the meal and everyone was seated he paused.... and I thought the moment overwhelmed him. There was like a pregnant pause and then off he went! It went something like "Thank you God for beautiful family and beautiful food and for everything being beautiful. Amen." He nailed it!
I gave Lily a baby so that she has her own baby when Mummy has hers! She loved it and is getting the hang of Motherhood. 😊
Chase asked very specifically for a "tele handler" and thats what he got!
And Tom... you know him well enough to know a garden trailer is a good idea.
They all got Pjs and t shirts and extras.
So we got to enjoy two special days. We were very lucky.
Besides Christmas I have produce coming in...
And I ran out of egg cartons so I have eggs in small boxes, everywhere!
Christmas wouldn't be complete without saving all the gift bags and ribbon!
😊
It has been a big year. Because I am thinking it over so much I am writing a post about reviewing our year and why that is a good thing. We need a little space just to breathe and consider. I made a lot of changes too. It takes a pause sometimes to realise that changes are even possible! Last New Year I set some goals that I felt were important and at the time I had no idea how I would achieve them... but God helps. One of them was to be more involved in my local community and church. Soon after I had a moment when it hit me what I could do! And so this year I achieved this!
Another thing was... I realised I needed to find easier ways of getting things done. I ended up off my leg for three months with an injury and wow I fast realised how quickly things could go pear shaped. All of us are in different circumstances but a deep think about how we use our time and ways to make life easier is worthwhile. I am going to share my list and see if you all can add some more.
Then finally I want to write up a plan for 2026. Some things worked and some things need work! We all kind of knew prices were going up this year and yep... that happened. But it hasn't stopped! It hasn't even slowed down. All our thrifty ways are out in full force. We are like ducks... if we look calm on the surface it is because we are paddling flat out where no one can see. Now our Nanas thrifty ways are our inspiration.
At this time last year I thought the world had gone mad. Now this year I realise it was only warming up.
Since going back to Church shortly after Andy died... which is almost two years now, I feel more "built up." That is a hard concept to describe. But often after Church I feel it... and feel ready to face another week in a revived and energised way.
When I was around 14 I was confirmed. We each chose a Saint who was our special hero/inspiration. I chose Joan of Arc. All these years later I am amazed how she was my choice as her words "I am not afraid, I was born to do this" are just how I feel about the battle we are in.
Through this year it became pretty clear to me we are in a spiritual battle. I experienced head on attacks for believing the Word of God. I had readers write to me and give me what for and saying they were leaving because I quoted a man I admired. All this did was to strengthen my resolve. It doesn't matter if your mission field is in Uganda or your home and local community... "I am not afraid, I was born to do this" are encouraging words.
Whatever is happening, don't be discouraged. Make a plan. A new year is coming. We can turn a new page, which is very exciting!
"Do not get tired of doing good" but do have a time of thankfulness and appreciation and a rest.xxx
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