What were you grateful for this week?
I GOT TO SPEND CHRISTMAS IN ROME!!!!!

What was the most difficult or challenging part of this week?
Thinking about having to go to the ER for a broken nose. I was worried about that. All is fine. No broken bones.

Tell us about a “wow” moment you had this week.
While the dad was sick this week I did my best to make sure he could rest as much as possible. Taking the dogs out for walks twice a day, cooking dinner for the boys. I love being able to help whenever and wherever I can. This was a welcome chance to give something to the family. 

Tell us about your week! 
Obviously the most exciting thing this week was that it is CHRISTMAS in Rome! I am a little excited about it if you can’t tell. I was hoping it would snow but I am also somewhat glad it didn’t. It would have made it bitter cold and while that is nice to bring people together, it is also bad for travel and can just be stressful. I had the wonderful opportunity to spend Christmas Eve and Day with the family and their extended family. How wonderful the experience was. No words can really describe my feelings well. Just grateful is the one that comes closest. 

 

I enjoyed baking banana bread with the boys, I enjoyed sharing more about myself and my family with the family when we talked about traditions and favorite Christmas activities. I learned more about Italian traditions and gatherings, which are quickly becoming my favorite things to learn. 

 

All in all, this week was about Christmas: shopping, cooking, baking, sharing, and, most importantly, spending time with the boys and the family. Being able to spend the holiday in Rome and be a part of this family. Thinking of gifts to buy and my first hug/cheek kiss moment. Wow I was taken aback and so honored to receive that! I hope I did it right! As the new year is approaching, this week is full in my mind of top weeks of 2017.