Christmas present wrapping involved taking shifts at the kitchen table, many regrets after someone that shall not be named insisted stocking suffers must be wrapped, and the bewildering discovery of 5 things of tape found in the supply box.

Opened the final day of our chocolate advent calendars and discovered Brian’s was EMPTY. No little drum for him. Spent a few minutes holding said calendars while contemplating the potential for bad Christmas vibes.

Proudly took my wrapping to the next level this year as the gifts looked like I wrapped with my eyes open for the first time, well, ever. Things I need to be successful? A large, flat surface, lined paper that doesn’t rip, a holiday themed audiobook, plenty of time, a healthy balance of gift bags and boxes, plenty of elbow room, no prying, judgy eyes, and the acceptance that ribbon is beyond me.

Cheered loud and proud for the Steelers third string QB, Mason Rudolph (and Brian’s best friend’s cousin!), during his epic, Christmas Eve winning performance. May have even participated in the holiday themed crowd sing along in his honor at the conclusion of the game as one does when the MVP shares a name with a very famous, unappreciated reindeer. Cue Team Eilers creating their own football version of the same carol.

Happily discovered all my favorite things in my stocking. Snacks, office supplies, lip balm, hand sanitizer, and scratchers. Was told Staples was the perfect place to shop for me. Concur.

Noted with glee that the mystery present under the tree was marked as mine. Opened it excitedly on Christmas morning to find wiper blades. Had to laugh and appreciate this jokey, but necessary gift. Brian was extra proud to share that he inspired the Autozone employee to do the same for his partner.

Sat in a dark urgent care waiting room before the sun rose so I could be seen for an asthma related issue. Considered trying to find the light switch, but determinedly remained in my little corner after hearing the coughing around me. One must pick their battles.

Prepared for the worst as we geared up to watch USC in the Holiday Bowl against a ranked opponent knowing many of their starters wouldn’t be playing. Calculated they hadn’t won a bowl game since our honeymoon trip in 2017. Remembered the Trojan themed blanket a loved one gifted and busted it out as I am never not cold. Shall now refer to it as the “Rally” blanket. Savored the win and the watching of the eggnog bath at the end.

Repeated for the thousandth time, “We have the best neighbors!” as after inquiring if I was home, they promptly delivered a freshly made baguette. Made my day and my snack plate much so much better.

Made rookie miscalculations that if we wanted discounted home holiday decor for future seasons we should have bought it in mid-December like apparently everyone else, instead trying two days AFTER Christmas. Realized we had forgotten our large outdoor candy canes and put them up anyway since it’s practically still the holiday season for at least two more weeks.

Lost socks for all three pairs I received for Christmas. Searched the house. Searched the laundry. Nothing. Trusted they would turn up. They appeared one by one on their own schedule, and occasionally mixed in with Brian’s.

Heard a distinct “plop” while starting the laundry. Immediately patted my pockets, and then fished my AirPods case out of the filling washer. If Brian can wash (and dry!) his, surely mine can survive a few seconds??

Resolved the water heater issue with only mild mishaps. Was delighted to learn our plumber was not only from So Cal, but played football against my high school team. Winning too, no doubt. 🤦🏼‍♀️ An eye roll was given to The Scientist after hearing he gave the plumber booties to wear from the stash he apparently keeps in our hall closet.