Much better

Christmas went very well as far as Sarah was concerned. She became a temporary full time resident of just 2 rooms. Her bedroom and her own special green living room. There was no mingling with guests and family unless they came to visit her. And even then it was one-at-a-time, thank-you-very-much. And please speak softly! I moved her rocking chair, stander, toys, books, dvd player and TV into her living room and she hung out there or rested in her bedroom. I kept the doors shut to the hallway since people were up and down it frequently.

I noticed that after a couple of days I could leave the doors open as Sarah was becoming accustomed to the sounds of the boys and visitors. I could see her listening for them and she seemed to enjoy it, as long as I narrated for her what they were doing.

This arrangement was great for all concerned. The boys could be 'boys', visitors could come and go, ESPN could be on 24-7 and it gave me the time to enjoy the holiday and the family.







This is my brother admiring the christmas cookies :)




John and Jimmy...the best Christmas present I could ever have. They refuel me. They keep me from drowning in the world of Sarah's needs. I am so proud of each of them. They are wonderful with their 'mama'. I've been a little needy lately and they rise to the occasion, bringing me right back into the light-hearted land of fun. Each year pulls them farther and farther from home, but when they do come home...The joy! The joy! The joy! And I once again become more myself.




Our Christmas Eve dinner!




Jimmy and I in masks from New Orleans





John was all about our traditional "Sand tarts"




Sarah relaxing away from the hubub.




Christmas morning!