This holiday season was a little different for me. As my family counted down the days ’till Christmas, we were also counting down the days until we left Australia again. We were originally supposed to fly out on Christmas morning, but thanks to some bad weather, our flight was canceled, and our departure was postponed 24 hours. This scenario feels like it encapsulates what 2019 has been for me and my family: it didn’t go to plan, but it was way better.
All this to say, Christmas was unbelievably full this year. In the best way. I even think we had the most Christmas dinners we’ve ever had in a season (major bonus– especially since we missed out on Thanksgiving!).
Here’s a glimpse into what it looked like.
The Lead-Up
The lead-up to Christmas is my absolute favorite time of year. Although it didn’t feel like Christmas in AUS, it was still pretty special. And my favorite time for a completely different reason.
We spent as much time as possible with our loved ones, and soaking up the last bits of summer before heading into this New York winter (which is v. daunting after essentially 18 months of warm(er) weather).




We spent a great deal of time in Sydney in the weeks leading up to us leaving. It felt way more Christmassy than Newcastle, though, so I really was not opposed at all.




Family Christmas Dinner
Since my uncle and his family were going to be away for Christmas, and since we were (at this point) flying out on Christmas day, we had our family celebration a little early.
This is the first Christmas season EVER that we were all together to celebrate. The last time we were in Australia for Christmas was 2012, and my youngest cousin, Cohen, wasn’t even born yet. It was the greatest gift to spend this time together.
Gabriel and Mackenzie both sang their songs they had previously performed at their Christmas concerts, I played Christmas carols on the piano, and to top it all off, all us kids performed tiktok dances. Yep. A very 2019 Christmas.




Christmas Day
Christmas day felt so surreal this year. I kept saying “Merry Christmas” to remind everyone (and myself) that it was indeed Christmas. It was a pretty giant blessing though. I am so thankful for it.







NYC!
Although we flew in on the 26th (my sweet momma’s birthday!) we were still in full Christmas mode, so we spent a few days doing allllll the Christmas things.












I am so thankful for this Christmas season. It was filled with answered prayers and so much love.
Sending you love and happiness this new year.
Sincerely,
M. xo.