Christmas Eve with the Shipley's

Christmas Eve has always been a very special day in my family. When I was young, we (My mom and I) would get up and open presents from each other. One of the presents would always hold a new outfit to wear to Christmas. After packages, we would then bake, and get ready to go to my Grandparents house on my dad's side.
This year was almost identical to the past years except I woke up in my own home, and traveled to Grandmomma's house. I was looking forward to this Christmas Eve because Grandmomma agreed to come with us to Mimi and Papa's house!
All the food is on the table, and there are not enough places for people to sit around the table, so we head off to the den. After good conversations and funny stories we head into the living room for presents. We draw names, so you only have to buy for one person. This year my cousin Shannon had my name. I got 2 deodorants, 4 air fresheners and 2 different razors. (hmmm.... I think I get the hint! :) )
My favorite part of Christmas is giving! I love seeing the expressions on the person's face when they open up the package.I also love the excitement of shopping for the person. Finding things they would love is challenging, but oh! so much fun!
This year my favorite gift from the Shipley side of the family is a picture of me with my 2 Grandmothers. I am 26, (almost 27) and I am so blessed to have 2 healthy grandmothers who live close to me!

Thankful for my Family!

It is at this time of year, that we stop to think about how many things we have to be grateful for. Family, friends, a job I love, a working car, a fabulous house! This week, I have been very thankful for the quality time I have been able to spend with my family.

Yesterday, we had our early family Christmas at my aunts house. I look forward to this day ALL year. I love the anticipation of the annual Chinese gift exchange. I begin thinking what I am going to put into the gift exchange on December 26th. That way I will have a full year to prepare and hopefully have the most desired gift in the exchange!
This year, in keeping with the tradition I started last year, I ended up with my own gift! I came home with my new Magic Bullet! It is supposed to chop, dice, and make smoothies all in 10 seconds! I can't wait to get it going and create hundreds of delicious 10 second recipies!

Today I am particularly thankful for my family. My mom and Grandmother came over after our favorite meal at Spring Creek to bake! We had so much fun making dressing, pecan pie, and my favorite; Cherry Pie! It is this quality time together that I love the most!