We are on day five of working lice out of our six littlest kids' hair. It's been taking hours each day of tedious work, plus load after load of laundry. Malachi has been vacuuming his heart out for us, and then this morning, we were trying to more thoroughly clean up bedrooms to get ready for holiday celebrations. When I was on head-number-four this morning, a couple of my kids were being uncooperative and I completely lost it. I yelled and literally threw in the towel, which yanked down a bowl of water I was using for hair care and spilled it all over the floor. I started crying, the kids started crying (if they weren't already), and then I couldn't stop crying.  

 

We all stopped and took deep breaths (again). I apologized and asked for forgiveness. We hugged (though carefully, because nits). We kept on moving forward. In the big scheme of life, our problems are very minimal and I'm trying to keep that in perspective even while I'm legitimately weary of this mess.

 

Late morning, a friend and her big kids came and grabbed all six of our bundled-up littles and took them outside so all of us could have a much needed break. I'm crying over that too, but this time from gratitude. Oh how I needed those minutes to reset. I spent the time making Warm Chocolate Soother and other fun goodies for lunch. I put a Christmas tablecloth on the table to surprise them. The break was much needed and the afternoon has been much better.

 

I hate it when I get crabby, and on Christmas Eve of all times. :( But God is faithful, my kids are forgiving, and after toddler naps, some big kid crafts and a Christmas show, they are back to feeling like this is the best Christmas ever. 

 

I hope your day has gone more smoothly than mine, but if it hasn't, know that you aren't alone. Prepping for the holidays can be tough and I think we all know that there are almost always hiccups. It's how we handle the challenges that matter. (Or in my case, how we apologize for not handling them better.)

 

Here's a beautiful picture of a much less crabby moment - our 2022 Family Christmas picture. I hope you enjoy it. Looking at it reminds me of how even with my imperfections, God makes us beautiful. 

 

How thankful I am that He sent His son to save us. We can't do this on our own. We are so blessed to celebrate Him today and every day.

 

May your Christmas be full of beauty. 

Much love,

Laura @ HeavenlyHomemakers.com
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