It really sucks that Mike works third shift at the most popular store during the holidays. Every year, as we get closer to Christmas, I see him less and less. This year, it’s a little different since we live together, but it still sucks; from here on out, he has no days off until Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. At least he doesn’t have to work Christmas Eve, like he did last year. The year before that, when he gave me my promise ring, I barely saw him until Christmas, either.

Whine.

I know, I know. It won’t kill me; I live with him! But it might kill him. He’s already working longer shifts because of the truck deliveries. Last night, he went in for eight instead of ten. I don’t know what time he got home this morning, but he’s supposed to be out at six. How often that happens — he usually comes home later — depends on how much stuff they have to do. I just hope he doesn’t end up overexhausted.

Tonight we’re going to a wake for Robbie’s — Mike’s brother, my future brother-in-law — grandma. The funeral is tomorrow morning, so Mike is just going to come home from work and then we’ll go. He’s such a good brother.

I’m still not ready for Christmas. Tomorrow I’m making cookies with Noni, Mom, and Lauren, then going out shopping with Sandy. I doubt I’ll be doing any shopping. It’s all going to depend on Mike’s paycheck (since he offered to let me borrow money for gifts), or if I get paid by some miracle this weekend. Christmas is a week away.

It sucks that I might not be able to get anyone gifts until after Christmas — or that I might have to do my shopping completely last minute, gah — but I’m trying not to stress too much about it. I did get gifts for all the kids on my list: Kaylene, Konner, Katarina, Tony, and Ciana. They’re all small gifts, but good ones.

Oh, if only the holidays weren’t so damn stressful. I might actually get a good night of sleep! I remember being a kid and being excited. Now I just can’t wait to get it over with! I’m kidding. The time with my family — and that includes Mike’s side of the family — will be nice. We’re going to have dinner on Christmas Eve with my dad’s side of the family. Then, on Christmas Day, we’re having dinner with his mom’s side of the family, and then dessert at my aunt’s with my mom’s side of the family. I feel accomplished for having figured out how to split up fair time with all of our family.

I’m also taking tons of pictures this year, of everyone. This will be Mike’s and my fifth Christmas. It’s kind of romantic, when I think about it.