I know I’m late to this… It’s been a difficult few weeks for a lot of reasons, and then you know – life.

First, I had to have my gallbladder removed about 3.5 weeks ago. All went well, and I’m doing good. But it was a little bit of a mental and emotional battle leading up to this. Because of trauma, there was this weird fear that I wouldn’t “make it.” I worried that Theo would be left to care for Stryder alone. I’m thankful the Lord kept me safe and is healing my body daily.

Second, Stryder caught a nasty little bug. I’ll spare you the details, but he was just not been feeling well.

Lastly, because of Stryder’s sickness, we didn’t get to do our planned Zoo Lights trip, which we have done every year as a family since Archer was born. I was beyond disappointed when I called my mom, stating we couldn’t make it. I felt as though I was getting Christmas ripped away with another child. All our holiday plans over that weekend were getting canceled, as the next day, we were supposed to go Wrap Gifts at Bo’s Heavenly Clubhouse, see Santa, and go to my Mother-in-Law’s for her annual Christmas party.

My mom called the following morning with a great idea: Divide and conquer. She and my dad picked Archer and me up that morning, and we went to Bo’s to Wrap Gifts and get Archer’s picture with Santa. Then, when I got home, Theo went to his mom’s to enjoy the Christmas party. Stryder then could stay home all day and get the rest he needed.

My family decided that everyone would cancel the Zoo Lights, and we could reschedule to go together. However, Stryder’s sickness was worse when it came down to it, and we had been in and out of the doctor’s office. If we can find a free night and Stryder is feeling better, Theo and I may still go.

On the 13th, I was overwhelmed, thinking I was losing out on making Christmas memories with both boys. But by the 14th, I was still getting to make them, but it just looked a little different than planned.

Archer –
This time of year is one of the hardest. I miss celebrating the holiday with you. You absolutely loved the Christmas lights and wrapping paper when you were earthside.

You would have been old enough this year to be in the church’s kids’ production… I’m just going to believe that you were singing along in heaven.

I’m thankful that everyone has been so flexible that you can be part of all the memories and holiday activities. It really does mean the world to me that you are remembered and loved.

Know that Daddy and I love you and miss you every day.
Mama