The Reason I've Been MIA, and a Recap of My Family's Holiday Season

Hello, everyone! I hope you are all having a wonderful holiday season, spending time with those you love, creating memories to last a lifetime.

I haven't written a note from the publisher for a few months, so I wanted to write one this week to fill you in on all the holiday fun we've been having, and to also explain why I've been a bit absent.

First, the reason I've been a bit absent is because I've been caregiving for my father, and also grieving his death. My dad was working full time as an electrician in September, but was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer in early October. The cancer was crazy aggressive, and fast moving. My siblings and I, who all work full time and have young children at home, spent the month of November caring for our dad, trying to keep him safe and comfortable. A few days after Thanksgiving, he passed away peacefully with my sister and I holding his hands.

So, I stepped back a bit from Macaroni Kid during the months of November and December so that I could be present with him, and with my family. The fog is beginning to lift a bit, and I'm looking forward to jumping back in with both feet at the start of the new year.

The past few weeks we've been doing our best to keep the holiday season as "normal" as possible for Everly, my 3 year old daughter. Here's a snapshot of some of the fun we've been having around KC!

Last week, we went to Union Station for the Holiday Express Train! If you've never been, it's a must, especially for young kiddos. Put it on your list for next year!

My husband had brought up Everly's tree that goes in her playroom with all her handmade ornaments and such, but it sat bare for a few weeks since I didn't have the time to decorate it with her since I was caring for my dad. We finally got to it on a random week night, and I'm so glad we did. Look at that smile!