Happy Holidays!

It is tough for me to believe it is the holiday season.  It seriously seems like it should be like July. But alas, the snow, cold weather, Christmas carols and the hustle and bustle snap me into reality.  Since coming home from Idaho, I jumped into action as I was hostess of the annual Christmas Eve party.

We had a small group this year as Mars and John were not feeling up to coming.  But Mom and Chuck came into town.  Jennie was in town as well as Philip and Tiffany.  We had a delicious ham dinner with all the trimmings just as tradition requires.  I even pulled together some cookies (including my 4th batch of sugar cookies in December) for us to enjoy.  After our dinner, we visited and then did our white elephant gifts.  It is always amazing that people get something they can use or fit them.

Late night cookie making with Philip

Cookie Tower - Sugar, Mexican Wedding Cake
Cookies, Ginger Cookies, and chocolate pretzels

Mom carving the ham

Philip and Tiffany

Jennie and Me

Because Jennie doesn't have a car in Utah, I drive her back to her Dad's house when we are done.  It has become a fun thing for me to see her Dad's house all decorated.  I might tease how over the top it is but I also admit it is very festive and fun.  I hear it is so popular, people come every year to see the lights on their house.

Christmas morning, I got up and made some breakfast.  Mom and Chuck joined us for waffles, sausage, and fresh fruit.  After that, we opened our stockings. Another tradition we do.  We all get stocking stuffers for each other and open them on Christmas morning.

Philip and his stocking.

Chuck is digging clear to the toe

Mom showing off her beautiful necklace

After all the festivities, Mom and Chuck decided to head back to their cozy hotel.  Philip was happy doing his own thing, so I took a much needed nap.  What a nice and decadent thing to do on Christmas Day!

In the afternoon, we headed over to my cousin Dave and Jamie's home for dinner with Dad's side of the family.  We had a full house there and were thrilled with the news that my other cousin, Ryan got engaged to his girlfriend, Heather.  We couldn't be more excited!!

Me and Dad

I've been off work since I went to Idaho.  I've been enjoying relaxing, seeing Philip as he is available, and doing volunteer work for the Best Friends Animal Society.  I have a few more days off and I am enjoying every minute.

For New Years, I am headed to the annual McNak party.  I'll post more about that later.  I hope everyone had a great Christmas (can I say that these days?? haha).  Have a happy and safe New Years celebration too.