The Grigsby Christmas Celebration

                                                                                   

Blake, Jessica and Hattie

Hattie and Brooks

Hattie and Max

Hattie’s gifts

Wesley and Michelle

                                          Christmas With My Grandbabies 🎄

Today was one of those days that fills your heart clear to the brim.

Around 2:00 this afternoon, Blake and Jessica Brooks came over with sweet little Hattie, along with Michelle, Wesley, Angel, Clifford, and Max. Any day I get to spend time with my grandchildren is a good day, and today was extra special.

Before everyone arrived, I took some time to get all the gifts sorted into little piles so I’d know exactly which presents belonged to which grandbaby. Luther and I were up early this morning—about 5:30 a.m.—doing some extra cleaning around the house. We straightened up the bathroom and gave the dining room and kitchen a good cleaning.

Now, I’m not really sure why we put so much effort into extra cleaning when we knew the house was about to be filled with noise, laughter, wrapping paper, and food from one end to the other. But at least it was nice and clean when everyone walked in—and that counts for something!

Around noon, Luther and I decided on our pizza order, and I ran to the store to grab drinks. We went with Pizza Hut, ordering five large pizzas along with some cheese sticks. Easy, simple, and perfect for a house full of kids.

It was so nice watching the kids play together, spending time with their cousins, and just enjoying being at Nana and Pawpaw’s house. I truly believe everyone was happy with their gifts, but even more than that, I was grateful that Michelle brought the kids over so we could all be together.

I really wish I could spend more time with Michelle and the kids, but life has a way of getting busy and pulling us in different directions. Because of that, every single minute I get with Clifford, Max, Wesley, and Angel is something I treasure deeply. I am so grateful and so blessed to have them.

One of my biggest gifts of all is something I’m already looking forward to—I’ll be going to New York City with Blake, Jessica, and Logan in April 2026, and I am beyond excited! Logan, their oldest, wasn’t able to come today since he was spending Christmas with his other grandparents, but I know we’ll have plenty of memories to make soon.

Christmas Day!

 

                                                           Christmas Day!

I’m so excited—it’s Christmas morning! I ended up getting up around 4:30 a.m., which honestly wasn’t part of the plan at all. But once I woke up, my mind was already racing with Christmas excitement. I decided to go ahead and move my presents to where I sit and move Luther’s presents to where he sits. I also made sure our stockings—already stuffed and ready—were placed right on top of our gift piles.

Even though I hadn’t planned on being up that early, I really wanted everything to be just right when we sat down to open gifts. There’s just something about having it all perfectly arranged that makes Christmas morning feel extra special.

Well, before I knew it, Mr. C came walking out of the bedroom and into the living room and asked, “Is it time for Christmas?” I couldn’t help but laugh and said, “Well… not yet—but we’re getting close!” So we got dressed, settled into the living room, watched a little TV, and then finally decided it was officially time to open presents.

Mr. C was spoiled this year. He got a bottle of Stetson cologne, a hoodie, a shirt, two pairs of sweat bottoms, his John Deere mower deck repair kit, a pair of binoculars, sweet treats, and even a few kitchen gadgets. He was smiling the whole time, which always makes my heart happy.

And let me tell you—he did so good shopping for me. He surprised me with a new printer for the computer, three shirts, brown shoes, brown pants, brown earrings, and a brown purse (clearly he knows my style). He also gave me Elizabeth Taylor Sparkling White Diamonds perfume and Elizabeth Taylor Passion perfume, plus the sweetest necklace—a heart with my initial K on it. My stocking was filled with fun little goodies too.

We both agreed we were very happy with what we gave each other. I always feel so blessed, no matter the gifts, because it’s truly the thought and love behind them that matter most.

After gifts, we made breakfast together and just enjoyed the slow, quiet start to Christmas Day. Those calm mornings are becoming more and more precious to me.

Around 7:30-ish, Brody texted and asked if we were coming over to see what Santa brought the kids. Of course, we headed right over. The boys were beyond excited. Lane absolutely loved his trampoline from Santa, and Landon was completely into the dragons he received. Sophie, being the baby, was still asleep—but I already know she’s going to love her Santa toys just as much.

After spending a couple of hours there, we headed back home, watched a Christmas movie, and caught up on the TV series we watch regularly. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.

Overall, Christmas Day was relaxing, quiet, and full of love. It really reminded me that home is where your heart is. I am so incredibly blessed to have Luther in my life—he truly completes me.

Now it’s time to mentally prepare for going back to work tomorrow. I already know it’s going to be crazy busy since we were closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. You’d think I’d be used to the nonstop ringing phones after a holiday by now—but here we go! Hopefully, I’ll get some saves!

I hope each and every one of you had a blessed and wonderful Christmas. Thank you so much for reading my blog. I truly appreciate you taking time out of your busy day to spend a few moments here with me.

Christmas Eve

                                                

                                           Christmas Eve

On Christmas Eve, Mr. C. and I got up around 6:30 that morning to start our day. We did sleep in just a little since it was a holiday, but I was too excited to stay in bed very long. We were headed to Elizabeth and Charles’ house, and Christmas Eve together means the world to me. Being able to celebrate the grandkids—Lane, Landon, and Sophie—along with everyone else is truly one of my greatest joys.

Elizabeth and Charles were hosting, and everyone gathered to make the day special. Alicia and Jonathan, Brody and Savannah, Lane, Landon, Sophie, Mr. C., and I were all there. Kaylee, Kennedy, and Waylon also stopped by, and they are very much considered family. Kaylee and Alicia have been best friends since pre-K, which I think is so special. It’s amazing how strong their friendship still is after all these years.

                                

Mr. C. and I brought what I call my cherry salad—also known as the “pink stuff”—along with banana pudding. We also brought tea, Sprite, Diet Coke, and fruit beer for drinks, plus deviled eggs for an appetizer. Elizabeth outdid herself, as always, with chicken and dressing, ham, sweet potato casserole, green beans, corn, mashed potatoes, and mac and cheese. There was also a relish tray and chips with dip. Savannah brought no-bake cookies and both nut and no-nut fudge, which were all delicious.

                                       

Luther & Charles

Elizabeth’s Christmas tree

We arrived around 2:00 and spent time visiting before Brody and Savannah arrived. Once they did, we started opening gifts. We opened them almost one at a time, and I loved that because we really got to see what everyone received and enjoy the moment together. That was probably my favorite part of the day.

After gifts, Kaylee and the kids arrived, and then it was time to eat. Mr. C. and I definitely ate way too much—but it was worth it. Everything was so good. I will always say that Elizabeth does an amazing job hosting all of us.

                             

Alisha

Brody, Savannah and Sophie

Landon

Sophie and Nana Karen

Later on, we played Dirty Santa, which isn’t my favorite game, but it’s their tradition and always brings plenty of laughs. Mr. C. and I brought a $50 first aid kit as one of the gifts. I also brought an Aztec-style blanket with rich red tones, a red Stanley cup, and a box of Swiss Miss holiday treats. Mr. C. kept saying he was going home with that first aid kit—and somehow, it worked out that he did!

The gift I brought was stolen a couple of times, and I believe Charles ended up with it. The gift I received was a large, beautiful potting planter bowl, a food slicer, and a very sharp kitchen knife. I could have chosen any gift since I was number one to pick and also had the option of choosing last, but I really liked that knife, so I kept it. Mr. C. and I plan to put sand and artificial flowers in the planter and use it on our porch.

We ended up leaving around 7:00 pm. Mr. C. was ready to head home—it had been a long day for him. Everyone else stayed behind to keep playing games and visiting.

Overall, our Christmas Eve with the kids and grandkids was absolutely fantastic. I couldn’t have asked for better fellowship, wonderful food, and meaningful time together. Days like this are what make the holidays so  special. 

Glad it’s Thursday!

                                               

It’s Already Thursday! Christmas Is Coming Fast 🎄

It’s already Thursday! This morning, I woke up at 5:00 a.m. ready to go. I knew I wanted to get at least 1,000 steps in before heading to work, so I made sure that happened. By the time I walked out the door, it was 6:42 a.m., and I was feeling accomplished and ready to see what the day would bring.

As we get closer to Christmas, I can really tell how stressed our members are becoming about the upcoming holidays. It’s that familiar end-of-year pressure — finances, schedules, family gatherings — it all adds up. I’m doing everything I can at work to help them understand the value of the membership and the protection we provide. Sometimes, reassurance goes a long way during this season.

I also need to figure out what finger food or appetizer I’m taking to work tomorrow for our department snack day. Right now, I’m thinking peanut butter fudge and pinwheels, because they always seem to be a hit. Before I fully decide, I plan to check in with everyone to see what they’re bringing so we don’t double up too much.

                                           

At home, my mind is already jumping ahead to Christmas Eve and the Saturday celebration with the grandkids. I need to sit down and figure out what I’m taking to Elizabeth and Charles for Christmas Eve, as well as what I’ll need for our Christmas with the grandchildren after Christmas. I believe pizza is on the menu, but I still want to make a few extra things. I’ve narrowed it down to a grape salad and some kind of fudge to add to the cookie platter I’m planning. I’m also hoping to find a new-to-me Christmas drink recipe that I can make ahead and chill for the grandkids.

                                  

I’ve always loved Christmas, and this year is no different. I’m especially excited to see most of the grandbabies on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and again on Saturday for their celebration. Those moments are what make the season so special.

Now, let’s talk budget — because yikes. I started looking at what I spent this year, and I may have gone way over. Every year, I tell myself I’ll stick to about $50 per grandchild (and remember, I have 12 of them), plus $50 for each of the grown kids and spouses. Somehow, it always feels like I end up closer to $100 per person anyway. With today’s prices, even $100 doesn’t go as far as it used to. I really need to start taking advantage of sales throughout the year and building a little Christmas closet so December isn’t quite so overwhelming.

I’d love to hear from y’all — how do you budget for Christmas? Do you set an amount per child, per family, or just a total spending cap? I know there has to be a better system than the one I’m currently using.

On a lighter note, next year we’re finally going to hang Christmas lights on the front porch. Believe it or not, we’ve never done that in all the years I’ve been with Mr. C. Right now, my porch is still decorated for Thanksgiving, and I really need to carve out an evening to switch it over. I have so many cute Christmas decorations that deserve to be out there.

Before I wrap this up, I want to ask one more thing — do you have a favorite festive recipe you’d be willing to share in the comments? I’m always looking for easy Christmas or New Year’s recipes. The simpler, the better, because I’m definitely a simple cook.

Here’s to a busy but joyful Thursday and counting down the days to Christmas.

Wednesday Ramblings

  

Wednesday Ramblings

This morning, Mr. C. is driving me to work, and I’m enjoying it more than I realized I would. These thirty minutes together have turned into quiet, quality time—and bonus time for me to work on my blog. As Christmas gets closer, finding time for everything feels harder. My thoughts are going in a million different directions at once, and some days it feels like I’m juggling more than I can comfortably hold.

Lately, we’ve been trying to figure out how to purchase a used vehicle for Mr. C. Vehicles are so expensive, and right now we just don’t have the funds set aside. It’s a reminder that come the beginning of the year, I really need to be more intentional about saving. Life has a way of keeping us grounded in reality, even during the holiday season.

At work, I’m thankful to be on track with my savings goals this month. Meeting expectations feels good, especially during such a busy season. I currently need forty saves to hit my goal for December, and while it’s challenging, I’m proud that I’m staying focused and pushing forward.

                         

This morning is thick with fog, and I’m grateful my husband is behind the wheel. This time of year always makes me nervous with deer running everywhere—especially living out in the country. The fog, the wildlife, and the early morning darkness can make even a short drive feel heavy, but today I feel safe and thankful.

                                       

Looking ahead, I’m excited about December 27th when the grandchildren come over for Christmas. We’re keeping it simple—pizza, a cookie platter, and an easy dessert. What matters most isn’t the menu, but the memories. I’m so looking forward to seeing Aaron’s children and Blake’s family. It will be loud, messy, and filled with laughter—the best kind of chaos.

                                           

I’ve noticed I haven’t been reading on my Kindle as much lately. Work has been too busy to read during breaks, and at home, I’ve been filling my time with other activities. Seasons change, and sometimes our routines do too.

As I sit here in front of my office at 6:57 a.m., I already feel blessed. I usually go inside around 7:10 to get my computer ready for the day, but today I’m pausing to acknowledge the small moments—the ride to work, the foggy morning, the anticipation of family time. I know today will be a good day.