So much to catch everyone up on!

So I think it has been since September since I really have had a chance to post anything that has really been going on in my life other than school. The semester is finally over!!! I did a lot better than I had expected and am loving having this month off. I am having a hard time thinking about going back but for now I do not want to think about it.
I am on day 5 and have accomplished so much already. I have continued my running and have finally reached 5 straight minutes of running! I really feel it is getting easier as I get a bit stronger. We repeat the steps twice and I have to say that when it gets to the end I REALLY have to push myself. My legs are killing me tonight and I sometimes do not enjoy it but I am happy that I am doing something other than thinking about exercise!
I finally started Christmas shopping yesterday. I think I am already more than half done in just 24 hours. I really just wish money grew on trees this time of the year.
I cleaned all the toy boxes out and donated two bags of toys and threw one entire bag of odds and ends away. Just in time to make room for all the extra crap we get this year.
I started painting my daughters room. Her birthday was in August and I bought her new bedding and promised I would paint it. Well I never got to it so I told her as soon as the semester is over I would do her room. I am having a bit of trouble getting the color just right and have had to take a break to get the Christmas shopping in so tomorrow I hope to finish it up.
We got a Christmas tree! I know it is very late but you know how busy I have been. Studying for finals and trying to get the entire family together at one time in one place is no easy task. We only get real trees so it takes a bit more planning than just going to the garage and fishing out the artificial one. I always think about going to an artificial tree but can never make that change. I have never had anything but the real thing. I love the smell but hate the mess. So glad it is done.
I am planning on the Christmas cards and a few presents in the next few days so wish me luck. I have so much to say about the last three months but want to add pictures to the posts so during the next few days I will try to update the past!