One of my biggest regrets as a mom is not taking time off when I had Charlie. Not that I couldn’t but at the time I felt this pressure to continue to post and be present with work. I sometimes think about those early days and specific memories that are only remembered because I captured them on my phone. It’s something that puts a pit in my stomach when I think about it. Now that I’m experiencing those newborn moments for the second time, I look at my sweet 27 month old boy and think to myself, I wish I had savored my days with him more.
I love the holidays for all of the obvious reasons but the true meaning of Christmas has really hit home for me this year. It’s an experience outside of my own. Watching Charlie truly learn the magic of this season while soaking up every minute of Jack’s sweet newborn sounds and smells. I feel especially grateful this year that God has blessed Dave and I with two healthy and happy boys. That we can provide them with a warm bed, a roof over their heads, food and all of the love in the world. I’ll never take that for granted. As I’ve gotten older, the meaning of Christmas means so much more to me. It means spending time with loved ones, giving back, helping those less fortunate, small acts of kindness and remembering where you came from.
I’ve decided that this year it is important for me to take a step back and enjoy some time with my family. I’m reminded (more so this year) that money doesn’t buy time, it doesn’t buy traditions and it doesn’t buy any of the stuff that really matters. My family deserves to have me be a little more present for the next few weeks so Sequins & Stripes is officially out of the office until January 8th. I’m sure I’ll be sharing moments on social media but as far as posts go there won’t be any new content for two weeks.
Wishing you and your family a beautiful Christmas and very happy New Year! And remember, the real magic around any Christmas tree is the presence of family. I encourage you to take a step back from the excitement of this season and look at what is really in front of you. Those are the true gifts!
As always, please know how very grateful I am for each and every one of you. Sending hugs and love and a clink of my champagne glass to all of you through this screen! I’ll see you in 2018!
XOXO
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