And that’s a wrap on 2023 here in blog world.
You guys, 16½ years later, and I still get excited to sit down at my desk every single day and “do life” with all of you. The internet and social media are pulling all of us a million different directions so the fact that any of you take minutes out of your day to spend time here with me is more humbling than you’ll ever know. This community has changed my life. I started this blog as a 25 year old young wife without any kids working a job she hated, just six weeks after having a miscarriage. I was sad, I was bored, I was lonely, I needed some sort of joy in my life, so I turned to one of my favorite pastimes…writing.
Over these last 16+ years, you guys have shaped me into the woman I am today. You’ve watched me become a mom (four times over) and thanks to this community, I’m a better one than I ever could have been without you. You’ve kept me accountable, you’ve encouraged me, you’ve supported me, you’ve loved on me and more than anything, you have prayed for me. Truly, from the bottom of my heart, I cannot thank you enough.
This year was different for us. The year started with the passing of my grandfather in January. Even though he was older, it came as a surprise to us. Such a surprise that my sweet dad was on the other side of the world when it happened. There were so many great days in 2023. More than anything, I will look back on this year and remember all of the time I was able to spend with just my family of six. Nothing marked my year more than family time, and for that, I am so very grateful.
Earlier this year, I watched the Julia Roberts and George Clooney movie Ticket to Paradise, and she says in the movie “Why save the good stuff for later?” which is a motto that really spoke to our hearts. Andrew and I have been trying to practice that as much as we can this year as we all know that tomorrow is never guaranteed and then just last week, I was listening to The Office Ladies podcast when they were interviewing Zach Woods and he said “don’t postpone joy”, and it immediately spoke right to my heart too. Apparently, from beginning to end, this has been a theme the Lord has woven into my life this year, and I’m going to try really hard to continue to embrace it in 2024 too.
On Sunday, our pastor was talking about Jesus being “the Prince of Peace”, and he made a big point to remind us all that “everyone has ‘stuff'”. We all have stuff. I know this holiday season might be really hard for some of you because of your particular “stuff” or maybe this season is a nice distraction for you from “your stuff”, but we all have stuff. I try to be as transparent as possible with this community, but the truth is that I often need to keep my “stuff” private for the sake of others. Please know though that I have my own “stuff” too. Some “stuff” is much, much harder than others, and I’m very, very sorry to those of you going through really hard times right now. I truly hope the Prince of Peace can give you peace even during this difficult time in your life.
2023 has been a wonderful year. I am so very grateful for my sweet family, the travels we’ve had, our health, and especially all of the quality time we’ve had together. It’s been such a blessing.
This year hasn’t been perfect though and among other things, we had “one of those phone calls” that we’re still trying to reconcile. One of those life changing calls. One minute, Andrew and I are sitting on our patio watching TV and then the next, his phone rings, he says hello and then he’s immediately screaming “call 911” into the phone. Fifteen minutes later, fifteen minutes…Andrew is holding our wailing friend in the emergency room parking lot, and I’m standing all alone inside the ER in a little room next to my friend’s body while the ER doctor tells me he tried everything, and he’s so sorry for my loss. One minute she was playing cards on the floor with her 11 year old daughter and the next, she’s gone.
You guys, we all have stuff.
This holiday season, I hope and pray that you stop and think about why we celebrate Christmas. It’s not about Santa. Or lights. Or music. Or any of the other details I love to blog about, it’s about Jesus. Jesus Christ was born. Jesus died on the cross for you. He died on the cross for me. He died on the cross for our friend which gives me tremendous peace because one day, we’ll see her again. And He rose again three days later for all of us. He is the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords, and the Prince of Peace.
If you do not have a personal relationship with Jesus. If you have no idea what I’m talking about, then my prayer is that you email me. I would love to connect with you. Please email me at mixandmatchmama@yahoo.com I will be reading the Bible all the way through again in 2024, and I would love to have you read with me. You can find all of the details HERE.
I am so excited to take a few weeks off from work and focus on my family. I’m excited to celebrate Christmas and do a little traveling and just pour into Andrew, Kensington, Smith, Ashby and Madeley. I am also so very excited to get back here with you again next year. I’ll have a lot of the same things, but honestly, I think I’m going to share a lot of new things to that have really been pressed on my heart. I will see you guys all again on Thursday, January 4, 2024.
Until then, I wish I could send all of you a Christmas card, but since I cannot, here is a peek at our photos and card this year by the amazing B. Faith Photography.
Sending you so much love.
Merry Christmas, friends!
xx Shay
Laura says
Shay, you mentioned at the beginning that you liked to write. Well, that was so beautifully written and your voice, message, tone, and heart came through so clearly. Thank you for all the encouragement every day, and especially today. Sending you lots of love this Christmas and can’t wait for you to be back in January (and will miss my daily M&MM moment in the meantime!).
Becky B says
Happy Holidays to you and your family! I am so sorry for your loss. Hugs to you. A true reminder that everyday is a gift.
Jess says
Beautiful photos! Always miss when you’re gone for this break, but well deserved! Hope to see tidbits on instagram until you come back! Merry Christmas & Happy New Year. Enjoy your trip! Cant wait to see if it’s something new or back to the slopes!
Beth Knecht says
Oh Shay, I’m so sorry for your most recent loss! I still pray for your family with the loss of your grandparents and for the health of your grandma.
This blog brings me joy every morning! I walk into my classroom, turn the lights on, read it and then start my day!! Thank you for being light in a terribly dark world! I hope you enjoy all of the little moments over the next few weeks! Merry, Merry Christmas!
Erika Slaughter says
It almost looks like you’re standing on front of the perfect fall foliage backdrop! Those trees showed UP for your pics! GREAT pics! Merry, Merry Christmas, Shay! Enjoy this time with your people! XOXO
Anna says
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your loved ones! Longtime reader (10 years I think?!) — I enjoy this space and look forward to each day you post. Have a great end to 2023, I hope it brings you peace and joy!
Elspeth says
What a beautiful Christmas post. I love the reminder that we all have stuff in our lives. Thank you for sharing as much as you do with us! I hope you have a blessed and joyous holiday season!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
NancyK says
Merry Christmas Shay.
Christina says
Merry Christmas Shay to you and your beautiful family. Thanks you for the heartfelt post. Enjoy your time off. Looking forward to reading your blog again next year.
Sheaffer says
MERRY CHRISTMAS, SHULL FAMILY! Enjoy your break with your family!!!!
Amy Heinl says
Have a blessed Christmas and may this New Year be filled with many moments of love and joy.
Jodie Kingsbury says
Merry Christmas to all of you!!! May you have a blessed Christmas season and a great 2024.
Mandie says
Merry Christmas, Shay! You are a blessing and encouragement to me every day. God’s richest blessings in the new year!
Bev Byerly says
Merry Christmas to one great blogger! I love to hear from good Christian speakers and you fit that mold! Have a safe and blessed Christmas season!
Susan Jeffries says
I have enjoyed your blog since the days before your littles arrived to the family. You have brought me hope and joy during many times when I needed it. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas with your family.
Kathryn Garrard says
I feell likeI have become part of your family from reading your blog over the years. Merry Christmas and thank you so much for sharing with us.!
Kara says
So sorry for your loss, prayers to you all! I am thankful to have found your blog as you have brought me peace and inspiration in so many ways! Have a Merry Christmas Shay! 🙂
Amanda says
Merry Christmas to the Shulls. Thanks for another year together. I wake up and s before I start my quiet time I like to fully wake up by reading your blog. I make your recipes, read your books, and I take your travel ideas!! Blessing to you all for 2024
Paige E says
Merry Christmas to your sweet family! May the season bring you comfort and joy! See you in 2024!
Callie says
Merry Christmas to you and your beautiful family!
Stacy says
Merry Christmas to you and your beautiful family!! Thank you for sharing you blog/life/family, I really enjoy it and get so many tips from you.
Also why does Smith look like a man? It goes so fast, my oldest is an 18 year old and swear his 1st Christmas was last year 🙂
Dana P says
Merry Christmas, Shay! So thankful for you!! ❤️💚🤍💚❤️
Kristin says
Oh Shay, I don’t know how you show up here for us every day, and always with such positivity, hope, and love. I am so sorry for your losses and struggles this year, and I appreciate the example you show us of focusing on our blessings, and realizing that other people have their own struggles, whether we know it or not. Wishing you and your family a very merry Christmas and a happy and healthy 2024!
Pamela Garrett says
Merry Christmas Shay! I have spent the last 12 years every morning with Jesus and then you through your blog. “Knowing “ your family has brought me so much joy. Thank you so much for all the hard work you put into your blog. You have a beautiful family and I hope you enjoy spending extra time with them ovee the next couple weeks ❤️
Talia says
You are a bright spot on the internet and I always look forward to your posts! Wishing you and your beautiful family a happy holiday season filled with warm fuzzy moments and really great food! Looking forward to joining you after a blissful holiday season! Merry Christmas, Shay!
Paige M Wright says
I love this post so much! Thank you for the joy you spread for Christ. Merry Christmas from the Wrights to the Shulls! Have a wonderful vacation.
Kathy says
I’m so sorry about your friend.
Jennie Holland says
Merry Christmas to you and your family! Thank you for this wonderful blog that gets my day started every morning. You are the best and I can’t wait to see what you have in store for 2024! Wishing you many blessings…
Michele says
Thank you Shay for sharing your life with us. I have been honored to be a “part of your life” in blog world. You amaze me with your positivity, joy and genuine niceness. I hope you and the family have a wonderful holiday season. 🙂
Kate says
Merry Christmas Shay!!! I just love your heart. I start my day “with you” every morning. Enjoy your time with your sweet family ❤️
Kelli says
Merry Christmas, Shull family! The minutes spent here each morning are fun and encouraging, but also life-giving. You introduced The Bible Recap to me last year and it has been such an impactful resource in my walk with the Lord! Praying blessings over your sweet family ❤️
SS says
Shay,
I am so sorry you all had to go through that. You are right there are some things we don’t always know.
I have learned with someone you loved passes it just hits you at different times. I have learned take pix. I have always had my camera with me since I was a kid. We went to a football game to watch my cousin…my Aunt said you have good pix for me? Lol. I have pix of my Dad holding our kid’s hands walking away. He always said “She’s taking pictures of our butts again!” Lol. To me though they are some of the most precious pix.
Enjoy the season and your time off!!! Beautiful Christmas card!!
Carol says
MERRY CHRISTMAS! to you and your family. Beautiful post. Thank you for always reminding us of the true meaning of Christmas. Prayers for safe travels.
Ashley says
Merry Christmas to you and your beautiful family, Shay! This post really touched me today. You are so right, we have “stuff” and that stuff looks a little different to each person. You are such a hard worker with your community here and beyond, I strive to be able to keep up with all the things you do, especially knowing that you have your own “stuff” going on too behind the scenes. I always love that you remind people about Jesus and are willing to communicate with people, that is just so special!
Until next year, friend! Have a fantastic and well deserved break with family!
Make Life Marvelous
Sarah says
Merry Christmas! Enjoy your downtime and your family. Thank you for sharing so much of your life with us. Cheers to 2024!
Kelly Kirkland says
Merry Christmas, Shay {and the entire family}! So sorry for the loss of your grandfather and friend. So thankful for this place you have created for so many and for all that you share! It is such a bright spot in my day! XO
Lauren says
OH MY GOSH that story about your friend just took my breath. I am so sorry
Alissa says
Merry Christmas from my family to yours, Shay! 🎄 I pray you have a safe and happy break and are able to spend quality time with your babies (they’ll always be our babies) and embrace what all Jesus has done for us. As a loyal reader and follower of your blog I am SO grateful for how to stand up and proclaim our Lord and Savior. You boldly and unapologetically spread the Gospel and are a true advocate for Him and pursuing a relationship with Him. He’s the reason for it all, right? Thanks for being such a light to all of us even if you’re personally going through hard times. Looking forward to the new year and being in fellowship with my sister in Christ! Merry Christmas!
Joanne says
Merry Christmas!
Marla says
Oh Shay I am so sorry for the loss of your friend. Such a hard, hard loss. I am saying many prayers for her family and friends this holiday season:
I always get emotional reading your last post of the year. It gives me all the emotions: happiness, some sadness , joy, admiration and so much more. Most of all though, I feel gratitude. Gratitude that you take the time every day to share a bit of yourself and a LOT of faith. It doesn’t matter if your topic is on God or something else , your faith always shines through. What a gift to us. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for being so generous with your love of Jesus! Thank you!!!
Enjoy the rest of 2023 and have the merriest and most blessed Christmas.
Brenda says
Shay, one of the joys in my day is reading what you share with us. I appreciate your time, your honesty and getting to follow along. I’m incredibly sorry for the loss of your friend and am holding her family, her friends and all who loved her close in my heart. May 2024 bring your family blessings, love and joy.
Kim DePalma says
Merry Christmas!! Enjoy your time with your beautiful family!! You are such an inspiration – I love reading your blog! What you accomplish each day is amazing!! The way you write makes the readers feel like we are right there with you. If I can accomplish a fraction of what you do I will be happy! Keep doing you! Looking forward to 2024 with you!!
MelanieL says
Merry Christmas to you and your family!
Allyson Elms Petta says
BIG prayers coming your way and to the family who lost a wife and mother. The Holy Spirit is holding all of you and giving you the peace that transcends all understanding through your grieving. But what a comfort to know the Lord has her! Blessings for joy and REST these next few weeks!
Lauren L Palmer says
Well, now I’m teary. Merry Christmas to you and all the Shulls!! xoxox
Kristen Gerdel says
Merry Christmas to you and your beautiful family! I love reading your blog each and every morning. You always have a way with words and today was no exception, it actually had me in tears. Thank you. I needed to hear some of that.
Krista S. Steenbergen says
Merry Christmas Shay! I am crying reading your post. In 2023, I feel like I have started to come out on the other side of some pretty heavy “stuff.” Your blog is my morning escape and knowing that you pray and have that relationship with God makes me happy and want to stay connected. I think our stuff shapes us and I know that I am a better person with a closer relationship to my Lord and savior because of it. It shouldn’t take the “stuff” to drive us there, but alas, it sometimes does. I am truly sorry for your losses this year. I can’t wait for book club, since we typically agree on book assessments. Merry Christmas to you and your amazing family!
Grace says
Krista, I was reading your comment about how our stuff shapes us. I feel the same way. Thank you for sharing this! I am also glad to hear you have started to come out of the other side of some pretty heavy stuff. I can relate to that as well. Thank you for your comment. When I was reading it, I didn’t feel so alone and felt comforted knowing that I, too, was coming out of some heavy things and how God uses “stuff” to shape us. Have a Merry Christmas! Thank you!
Mary says
Beautiful words. I am so sorry for the loss of your friend. Enjoy your break and have a Merry Christmas!
Gianna says
Merry Christmas, Shay! Thank you for another year of blessing me with your wisdom, advice and motivation to find joy in each and everyday. You have blessed me for several years now and I cannot wait to see what 2024 will bring. God bless you and your family! Xoxo
Marcy Norman Cox says
Merry Christmas to you and your family..thank you for all the inspiration, ideas and recommendations. Enjoy your time away from the blog. See you in 2024
Nicole B says
I am so incredibly sorry for your loss. Sending love and prayers!
Kathy says
Merry Christmas to the Shull’s from the Lang family! <3 Your Christmas card is beautiful! Your blog is a positive light in so many lives. I love that you share your faith in such an inviting way, and want others to have a close relationship with Jesus, as he is what Christmas is all about. I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your friend, but encouraged to hear that you will see her again in heaven. That surely doesn't take away the pain of her loss in this world, but our faith is what keeps us moving forward. I know you will really enjoy your time off with your family, and I look forward to hearing all about it in 2024! Happy New Year!
Ashley says
This was one of the best blog posts you have written, it actually brought tears to my eyes. I have a hard time believing that you have been doing this for 16 1/2 years, because I remember when you celebrated 10 years, and it doesn’t seem like that long ago! Thank you for choosing JOY and sharing your JOYS with us each day. Merry Christmas!
Suzanne says
I have followed you for many years now and your blog is the one that I look forward to reading each day (especially the book reviews). You have a way with words–that is a talent. Have a wonderful holiday season with your family.
Faith says
Well. I’m crying. Thank you for pouring into us each day. Love everything about this post. I’m going to write the quotes in my journal, in my calendar, anywhere I can as a reminder of all the things. Enjoy time with your family and for yourself!! Merry Christmas!!!
Sarah Shaneyfelt says
Merry Christmas, Shull Family! I’m so glad I got to meet you at the beginning of the year and have coffee with you–you are as genuine in person as you are online, and I’m thankful for that! I hope you enjoy your much deserved Christmas break with your family!!
MeetTheShaneyfelts
Grace says
Shay, I am so sorry for your loss. I will be praying. Thank you for inviting us into your life and sharing so much joy. I read so many of the comments and feel so blessed that so many readers feel the same way as I do when starting my day reading your blog. Have a Merry Christmas! We will miss you a lot but look forward to the NEW YEAR when you come back! Hugs
Susan Fitzpatrick says
That was so beautifully written. I’m so sorry for your loss. I’m praying for you and your friends. Looking forward to your blogs in 2024! Merry Christmas to your family.
Kay says
Shay – Merry Christmas blessings to you and your beautiful & sweet family. I look forward to reading your blog every day. I appreciate the fact that you share fun & random things about you and your family and are not just trying to “market” something all the time like some other blogs. With that being said, I do love all the cute clothes/products that you link – you’ve definitely upped my wardrobe game! Have a wonderful holiday and I can’t wait to see you back in 2024!
Heather Smith says
What a wonderfully honest and worded post. Prayers of peace for all who have passed and for their loved ones this year. I’ve been reading the blog and following along since 2012 Shay, and cannot wait to continue in 2024. Merry Christmas to the Shull Family❤️
Donna Mason says
Merry Christmas Shay. Wishing you and your family an incredible holiday season filled with joy and love. I am SO very sorry to hear of your friend’s passing. That broke my heart to read this. Thank you for filling my days with happiness while reading your fantastic blog!!!!
Beth Valenta says
Shay, thank you for such a heartfelt post to all of us. I have struggled lately, and I take you with me when you said to give the big stuff over to Jesus, and I found strength through prayer and through some very special people. Yes, we all have “stuff” and that gentle reminder invites us to be better, to love stronger, and give freely. Sending warm thoughts and much support and love during this time of loss. I look forward to January 4th and seeing you back. Much love!
Stephanie says
Beautiful post, Shay! I appreciate your boldness in sharing where your hope lies! Merry Christmas to your lovely family!
Danielle Morman says
Merry Christmas! Enjoy your time away.
I ordered all my bible recap stuff the other day. I am so excited about this!
Keisha Dawson says
Shay, Thank you so much for showing up here everyday and bringing joy and the goodness of Jesus to all of us! This year has been such a challenge for our family as our oldest was diagnosed with brain cancer in August. Our lives got flipped upside down, but I can truly sees sweet little miracles in the everyday, and I am so thankful for HIS goodness. In the midst of the pain and fear, I know without a shadow of doubt that HE is holding us close. Merry Christmas to you and your sweet family!
Katie Hahn says
Merry Christmas Shull Family! I am so sorry for the loss of your friend. My day does not start until I read your blog in the morning. I can’t wait for you to be back in 2024! Enjoy your people!
Carla Martinez says
Merry Christmas! Thank you for sharing with all of us!
Donna says
Merry Christmas to the precious Shull family! Shay, you are such a gifted writer, and you share such wonderful things throughout the year. I’ve traveled around the world with you! I’ve picked up great clothing, jewelry, and make-up ideas from you! I’ve learned more about decorating my home and making it inviting for everyone! I enjoy your recipes. But, truly, I love and respect your love for Jesus Christ above all these things!!! Jesus, the Son, shines bright through all the things you do and say, and that puts peace and joy into my heart. Thank you for everything you do!!!! Fully enjoy your family now!!!
Katy Stahl says
Shay, thank you so much for the reminder to not delay the joy, I really needed that today. I’m sorry for you recent loss, prayers to you and yours. Merry Christmas, we’ll see you in 2024.
Alison says
Such a beautiful post to wrap up 2023. Thank you for sharing a piece of your life story with us – it’s a true joy to watch your family grow and I love the light you bring into this social space. Merry Christmas, to all of you!
Deb Weber says
I am about to finish the year with the Bible Recap because you introduced me to it and invited me to join on Instagram. I just prayed for my gratitude for you this morning after my Bible Recap. I am truly grateful for you for that and the joy you bring in your blog posts. I will pray for you, your family and your friend’s family for peace and strength while you grieve. Have a Very Merry and Blessed Christmas!
Martie in FL says
Merry, Merry Christmas, Shay.
Dana J says
Thank you for sharing your heart with us in today’s blog post…I am so sorry for your loss of family and friends this year. Prayers of comfort and peace for all who carry this loss in this season. Enjoy your time off with your family…Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! ❤️💚
Connie says
Merry Christmas!! 🎄⛄
I am ready for a new year. This last year was tough in ways on our family. Enjoy your time with your beautiful family! I know I will as well. I love Christmas time! ❤️💚
Jill L. says
Merry Christmas Shay. Yes, Jesus, The Greatest Gift of all. Thank you for sharing about some of your stuff. I am so sorry about your friend. Her husband and family will be in my prayers. My heart breaks for her daughter. You are a good friend Shay, to those near and far. Love to you.
Waynette says
Merry Christmas to you and your family! I enjoy reading your blog every day and hope you enjoy some down time during the holidays. Thanks for reminding us of the reason for the season and our only Hope in this world-Jesus!
Tiff says
Shay, thank you for sharing parts of your life with us through this blog. You’ve been an encouragement to me. Wishing your family a Merry Christmas, and condolences to your family for the loss of your friend.
Rhoda W says
Merry Christmas, to you and your precious family. I love the blog and as many other have said you add a little bright spot to each day!
Paula says
Merry Christmas Shull Family! Thank you for sharing pockets of your life & bringing joy to so many. I appreciate the “light” in the middle of “hard stuff”. You also do a great joy pointing to Jesus and that warms my heart. Enjoy your break!
sandi says
Your blog is warm sunshine in an ever darkening world. Thank you for your posts pointing your readers to Christ. Your book posts are my favorite but they are secondary to the ones where you share Jesus with the blog community.
Merry Christmas Shull family!
Ramona Puckett says
Merry Christmas Shull Family 🎄🎅🏼❤️💚❤️💚
Laura JeanS. says
Wow.. I had to read that twice! I loved your message, and I”m just so sorry to hear what you and your friend’s family are going through. It is a reminder that we all need to focus on what really matters!
Your blog always lifts me up! Enjoy your time with family… I’ll be enjoying having my son home from college, and my other son’s last year home since he’s a senior!!!! Cheers 🙂
Jen says
Merry Christmas, Shay. I say all the time that everyone who walks through this life has deep pain. I am so thankful for a Savior that walks with us through every trial. Shay, thank you for using your platform to share His love with the world. Your blog is such a bright spot on the internet.
Jill Blanton says
Merry Christmas Shay!!! Long time blog reader and follower, love your positive spirit. Special thank you for creating the Bible recap group!!! First time completing the Bible for me and it is because of this group you created! Thank you Thank you!
Debbie Hibbert says
What a beautiful post! Thank you for sharing yourself, and your family, I enjoy your blog so very much❤
I pray that 2024 is an amazing year for the Shull’s. I plan to join with you in the Bible reading plan, and the new book club.
Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year!
Beverly says
So sorry for your loss. May your friend’s memory be a blessing to you and your family. Love, love, love reading your blog. You ought to write a book in addition to a cookbook with all your wonderful recipes you need to write a handbook for families. You have figured out how to have a healthy marriage with grounded children. More people need to read your wisdom. Please consider publishing.
Best wishes for a happy & healthy 2024.
Candace Hundley says
Dear Shay,
I read your blog daily but never write UNTIL NOW!! Most of all i love how you share Jesus with your many followers!! Its really all that matters !!! Im no doubt one of your oldest followers — honestly i love it all– the true stories of your kids,recipes and travel stories!! Through you ive traveled far and wide !! Wishing you and your darling family, including your cute pups the Very Merriest Christmas !!
Faith says
You are a light. Thank you for sharing His light into this space while also bringing lightness and levity into our daily lives. I am a young mama of three littles (2 year old girlie and twin four month old boys). This has been a challenging six months for me and my young family; yet, looking forward to reading your blog posts have been daily highlights in the mundane moments of diapers, nursing, and general toddler/infant neediness that you remind me goes away in a blink and to savor each stage. You have allowed me to vicariously try new recipes, shop at Trader Joes with my eyes, travel to nantucket and Europe when we cannot afford it, and read so many books when I do not have the time through your reviews, and most importantly you consistently have an undercurrent of encouraging me to hold on to my faith, my family, and fun.
May God continue to bless you and your family this Christmas season and into the new year we are privileged to welcome in.
Thank you❤️
Tanya says
Merry Christmas. I just love what you wrote about all of our “stuff.” Such true words straight from the heart.
Christine says
Beautiful words, beautiful photos! Thank you for sharing your thoughts and life with us! Wishing MANY blessings for you and your family in 2024!
Nicole says
This is always my saddest post of the year. You so deserve time off and it is a privilege to come to your corner of the internet and take a peek inside your life. I’ve been following you since Kensington went to kindergarten. You are a true inspiration to us all and it is no doubt that you have a wonderful life because of your positive look and keys to finding the good in everyday life. I love the idea of a family motto for the year. I think I may have to adapt that in the new year. Thank you for showing up here for all of us daily. Enjoy the time off and I hope you can have some deep connections with your sweet family. Many prayers for you and your friends family. I hope you have a Merry Christmas.
Kacy M says
Merry Christmas and happy new year! Thankful for another year of blogging (been a subscriber for years..,before the two littles!). So sorry for the loss of your friend. Praying for comfort for their family. Have a wonderful end of the year!
Jaren says
Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas Shay!!! Thanks for always being a bright spot in my day! Enjoy your time off!!!!
Lisa D says
Merry Christmas to your beautiful family!
Stuff is hard regardless of the time of year. But this year feels really tough. Cancer has hit my family hard. My 88 year old Dad is coming to the end of his life and he is struggling with the understanding that his life will soon be over. We also had 3 women in my family have breast cancer this year. We wonder what the new year will bring. I hold onto my faith and that helps. But some days are just sad.
Sending prayers out for all the people with “stuff”. God bless
Natalie says
Shay that was such a beautiful post although I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of your friend. I hope y’all have a very Merry Christmas and looking forward to being back here next year. Thanks for sharing your life with us!
Aileen says
Merry Christmas Shay! December marks my 11th year of reading your blog. 🙂 Love you and your family, and hope you all enjoy this sweet season!
Mary says
Your blog has brought me so much joy over the years. Thank you for putting so much time into it every day. I wish a Merry Christmas to you and your family!
Kay says
Oh, Shay! I am so very sorry for your loss. How heartbreaking. Sending so much positive energy your way.
As others have said, thank you for creating and leading this amazing little community! My daughter was in the hospital this week for a (planned) surgery, and though she’s recovering nicely, it was a brutal week for us all. While I was sleeping over in the hospital with her, your blog on cozy things came out! I read it while sitting by her bed! and felt so happy. It was just what I needed. My point is, though your readers may not have met you in person, you are in our hospital rooms when we need a cheer!, in our kitchens while we drink our coffee and get ideas for gifts and decorations, and in our hearts when you go through good and bad times with us.
Happy holidays to the Shulls! Hope you enjoy all the togetherness.
Dustie Day says
Merry Christmas Shull family!!!!
Bev says
Merry Christmas to you and your beautiful family, Shay! Thank you for pouring into our lives throughout the year with multiple resources, etc. but also for being a friend to all who follow you. Best part is how you point us to the Savior who we all need most of all. God bless you! ❤️
Detroit Duchess says
I love following along with you year after year! I also loved the podcast so I hope it comes back in 2024. I’m so sorry for the loss of your grandfather and your friend. I hope that their memories bring you comfort. Thank you for sharing your life with us. Happy New Year!