thank you for today

4 o'clock isn't too early to get up and open presents... Santa had definitely already been to our house, so why did I have to go back to bed? Mmmm... maybe because Ben didn't get the memo that even falling asleep on Christmas Eve was challenging enough, but trying to stay in bed after I have waken up is basically impossible. I did however manage to make it all the way until 6:20 before I dragged him from bed. I am not sure he appreciated getting up that early, but hey, I figure the more time we are up on Christmas the more of the day we get to enjoy, right? And no matter what he says... he did a great job on the stocking. I loved every part of everything he gave me- he even dared to venture and get things not on my list!! Bonus for him- I don't want to exchange ANYTHING! Most common gift in our house? Marathon pictures!

Today went off without a hitch- things went like clock work and I am pretty sure everyone had a fabulous time. Ben and I did a quick stocking exchange first, then my mom came down- and of course she went over board. But how fantastic is she? She came down here to help relieve some of the stress of having people here for dinner and me not being here to help. Ben did an awesome job balancing entertaining and helping in the kitchen and with the dogs... He didn't get lost in his own world at all.

We both got everything we wanted and more, but more importantly, I think the gifts we picked out for everyone else went over extremely well too! I think everyone went home feeling like time, energy and effort were put into the day.

I am hopeful that Ben falls asleep tonight knowing that today he was part of a perfect day... and that today with the help of our families we truly experienced the true meaning of Christmas. The only missing pieces were Chrissy and Will. My love to all tonight... Merry Christmas.

come together... right now

It absolutely redicious. We have played so much Rockband Beatles in the past few weeks, that I find myself waking up with Beatles songs in my head. When I am at the gym, yup Yellow Submarine and that stupid Octopus in the sea song. I think we need another version of the game!

In running world? Things are not going so well... Shin splints SUCK! I need to figure this shit out- cause i am tired of the arc trainer. Enough is enough. I don't know if it's my shoes or what, but I am not running on pavement any more. Any advice?

And then's there Christmas- Ben's fam will be here for Christmas. I can't tell if he is stressed out about it or not, but we are hosting. So keep your fingers crossed and I just found out, you have to cook the potatoes before you try to mash them!