A Reflection on Christmas.

I really am glad that I needed to come into work for a minute today. It actually has been a bit of a "blessing in disguise". Work has been really slow, but it's given me some much needed time to reflect this morning. It's nice when the office is so peaceful, it's rare to get some really reflective time.
I have had a really hard time with the Christmas season the past 2 years because, my family has been down in Mexico, and that is usually where I am. The past 2 years Jared and I couldn't make it work financially or with getting time off work. We've had a really wonderful Christmas here, but I just feel like a big piece of Christmas has been missing. This year, my brother is serving a mission in TN, and my parents are in Mexico and I am here in Utah. Today I decided I was not going to be sad. I was going to embrace having another family. A family that loves me unconditionally, and doesn't go to Mexico for Christmas. ;) I want to let my "sad wall" down and experience a wonderful DeMann Christmas.
{My family's Christmas card they made down in Mexico}

Another reason to be truly, genuinely happy is that one of my longest, closest friends got engaged yesterday, and I get to see her today! Most of you should know Kjerstin (here is her blog).
{all of us this year in Vegas on Halloween - link to post}

Well last night, her long - time boyfriend Shane proposed to her. He had told me his plans before, because J and I were going to try and make it down South where they live for the big event. However, life happens and we couldn't make it down.
{we did make this video for her to watch after the proposal}

I don't think that I have ever been so happy for any other couple to get married as I am for them. They are such a fantastic couple, and since they've been together they have grown so much as a couple! I see how happy Kjerst is, and it makes me love Shane more and more. He's the most fun person to hang out with, and I will always love them both. I love that I love Kjerstin, and love Shane. It's not an obligation to like him. It's a true friendship. They will have a fantastic life together, they already do.
{check her blog in a few days for the full story - it's adorable, and you will cry}
I cannot wait to take this same photo with reversed roles! My beautiful bride-to-be!
There is no reason to be gloomy this holiday season! 
Merry Christmas everyone!
I love all of you and that's the nostalgic truth!