It’s almost Christmas time, and once again it feels that this year has flown by. It really isn’t all in your imagination that time goes by faster when you’re an adult. I think it has do to with working 5 days a week, and constantly wishing it were the weekend. Maybe that’s a clue we should slow down and enjoy each day as it comes along, even if it does involve working 12 hour days 4 months of the year.

This is going to be a bit of a different year for me. As my friend Elizabeth pointed out, it’s the first year that I won’t be wondering if Josh is going to get me an engagement ring for Christmas. Thankfully, we’ve already taken care of that this year. It’s also the first time I’ll be traveling to Cincinnati to meet some of Josh’s very extended family members. I’m nervous about flying in what might be bad weather, but I’m sure once I’m there it will be nice to see his family again.

This Christmas, Josh and I had a lot more people to buy for since we’re combining our gift-giving lists and had to include the Kentucky family in our list this year, but I must say that I really do enjoy picking out gifts for people…even if they are people I’ve never met before. Luckily I started really early, and even though I missed many of the super great Christmas sales, I feel I was still able to get good value for my money….without having to risk life and limb on Black Friday sales. I just don’ do well with shopping when I have to be in crowds. I’m far too efficient for that!

In other Almost Christmas news, we were lucky enough to get to attend Josh’s sister’s graduation from UH. She’s taking her first steps off into the real world, and I just hope its’ everything she’s dreamed of!

I’ve spent the past week spending time with friends in Houston and making cookies with my mom. We decorated cut-out cookies yesterday, and every year they turn out better and better. My mom is so well equipped now after taking her cake decorating classes. I’m quite fond of my penguins and reindeer this year and I always like doing the Christmas trees.

I hope everyone has a Merry Christmas and gets plenty of time to spend with their family!

Even though almost everyone we know is married by now (as evidenced by the 6 weddings we attended this past year) I thought it might help some other Houston brides out there to see which vendors we’re using for our big day.

Venue: Paraiso Maravilla
Catering: Bailey Connor Catering
Wedding Boutique: Weddings By Debbie
Bridesmaids Dresses: Jim Hjelm
Brides Dress: Sottero & Midgley
Flowers: Whole Foods Market
Wedding Cupcakes & Chocolate Mousse: Ooh La La Bakery
Hair & Makeup: Your Beautiful Face Co
Photography: Erin Anderson Photography
Ceremony Musicians: Chamber Music Unlimited
Reception Entertainment: Luxury Trio
Invitations: weddingpaperdivas.com
Accessories: Nordstroms
Shoes: My Glass Slipper
Fascinator: PowderBlueBijoux
Garter: Peterene Design
Cake Topper: SugarRushCakes
Cupcake Forks: Beadz2Pleaz