Clyde the Snowman

Today we're having more snow. While I shoveled, Joshua decided to make a snowman. Yes, he hates chores likes shoveling, but I couldn't be mad. It's a very cute snowman thanks to a previously unused wedding gift, a snowman kit that includes all the snowman-making accessories.

So here he is, Clyde the snowman.

Feliz Año Nuevo!

New year's eve was never a huge deal in our house. Sometimes we would have some sparkling grape juice and chips with Velveeta around 10 pm, and then it was off to bed. Because of this, I still find it difficult to get very excited for this event; however, Joshua is a big fan, so I make an effort.

Last night we decided to go out for dinner. After going to Red Lobster with the intention of using a Christmas gift card, we went out for Chinese food instead. (I just couldn't wait two hours for a table along with the rest of the population of Springfield.) That's okay. Chinese really is tastier, and no waiting. (not to mention our super-hot Asian server)

Later in the evening we met some of Joshua's friends at a piano bar, very classy. It was a nice place with a band playing mostly oldies, pretty fun. We toasted the new year with some champagne, found out Joshua's friend has been married to his girlfriend for almost two years, danced one song (not nearly enough alcohol to dance any more), and then were home by 12:30. I would say it was a very nice evening. Hopefully some pictures are on their way.

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.

Brrr, It's Cold in Here

I'm a stickler when it comes to the furnace and air conditioner. I like it a little warm in the summer and a little cold in the winter. Save the earth and some money, right? Well, when the temperature drops below five degrees outside, as it is at the moment, even I'm a little chilly. Despite the thermostat being set at a reasonable 68 degrees, our downstairs still feels like the North Pole.

Even my bread is feeling it. Normally I let bread rise on top of the dryer as it runs. It's the perfect temperature. Today, though, that wasn't getting the job done. After taking out the last load, I put the tray inside and shut the door. Perfect! (And quite clever, if I can say so.)

Blast You Snow and Ice

So this morning I went to clear the snow and ice off the car in order to take it to the dealership to get fixed. After letting it run for a half hour and scraping for a half hour until I thought my fingers would break, my ice scraper did break. Frustration. Much irritation. I was going to take a picture of it to enhance my post, but I just didn't have the patience. Now after taking it in to the dealership and waiting over two hours for it to be fixed, I am home and in a very blah mood. It's almost time to drive to Edwardsville for class, a trip that takes an hour and a half in good weather.

Let's all take a moment to feel sorry for me.

Done.

Thank you for your kind attention.