Complaining about stressful final exams seems trivial lately. Complaining about how I’m still unemployed seems ungrateful in some way. Basically – complaining about anything feels disgusting.

Twenty-six. Twenty-six innocent people taken from their families, and during the holiday season. It is a comfort to know they are home with the Lord but the heartbreak for all the families and friends that remain has been crushing. I can hardly bare to read through the list of children – names that Michael and I have on our “potential children’s names” list, the same age as my niece, the same hopes and hilarious stories and dreams as children across the country. Two of the teachers…one a year younger and one a year older than myself.

There are always questions of ‘what if’ and ‘why’ and after the tragedy in Aurora this summer – it all feels too close to home. After Friday afternoon, I had to turn off the news. I’ve only read 1 or 2 articles since then. But for the weekend, it was about appreciation and love and gratitude.

Mike and I spent all weekend together – watching through the extended version of the Lord of the Rings trilogy, reading The Hobbit together, and going to see The Hobbit last night together. Fantasy and wonderful stories. Spending time together.

Today I am watching my beloved show, Gilmore Girls, and having a Christmas cookie baking extravaganza! Comfort chocolate and a great show.

Hug your family and friends. Give them a call. Count your blessings. Look for the light in this world because even with the evil, it is all around us.