Having a Merry Little Christmas

Christmas is always a whirlwind experience for us. It's Jon G's favorite day of the year, and she goes to great lengths to make it special; however, a generous amount of snow and ice prevented some of the usual activities this year. We couldn't make it to Grandma and Grandpa Gilbraith's on Christmas Eve, so we missed the big party with all the aunts, uncles, and cousins. Instead, we had a quieter evening in (though the Wii tennis tournament was ferocious). Christmas day included the annual brunch, gift opening, and picture taking. This year we also went over to visit Grandma and Grandpa Gryp. We didn't stay long, but it was nice to wish them a merry Christmas. Later in the afternoon, we made the trip to Grandma and Grandpa Gilbraith's, and it sounds like we missed quite the party. Joshua and I then had to scurry home a day early in order to miss another coming storm.

It was a wonderful Christmas, just with disappointing weather. Here are a few things that made me smile this year.
Meeting little puppy Maia, Kati's dogger. She's pretty cute, especially in a loverly coat, designed by me. (I think my new coat looks pretty festive as well. Thanks Santa!)

Seeing Joshua (looking rather like a pimp) with some of his very favorite things, including an Indiana Jones hat, Superman t-shirt, and leopard print blanket. Thanks Vanilla Bean Counter for re-introducing some leopard fur into my home. Joshua loves it, and I had just managed to get rid of all of his bachelor's animal print junk. Really funny... Actually it was pretty funny.

Taking a family picture to celebrate the new year. Mom was really disappointed to discover that she had no family pictures from all of 2008 to send in a Christmas card. I made the suggestion that we take a new year's picture. She hopped on board with this idea, and will be mailing cards soon. Vanilla Bean Counter came up with the festive hats and blowers, and I think they made the picture. It's fun to look at and think of 2008 drawing to a close. 2009 has even more to look forward to, including three graduations (bachelor's, master's, and M.D.), a move on to residency and a real job, exciting changes, and things to do with the family. We live a good life.