Visiting

While in Nebraska I got to see some old friends. The one I was most excited about was my old roommate Stacy. Her girls are beautiful! It was great to catch up with her, although the time was way too short. I miss you Stacy!

Family Time ...

We enjoyed several days with the fam over the holidays and as much as we look forward to it, wouldn't trade it, it's great to be home -- surrounded by our stuff and our own comforts, our own thermostat. My parents like it rather warm in their house - 77 degrees. (I love you mom & dad!) Of course, I'm pretty sure they think our year-round 68 degree house is pretty close to the north pole. Funny, I grew up with them in a house that was warm and in the years since living with them have changed to not be able to handle it. How many other things have changed? Of all those changes, what things am I aware of / able to recall and what things don't I even want to think about? Okay -- way too much for me to think about. This was supposed to be lighthearted and about all the fun and family and pictures from Christmas. Back on task.

First Christmas pitstop: My Grandparents. This is always fun. A tradition that started when I was born. I LOVE this Christmas and really miss it when we're not there. They're just a really fun group!

Once all the fun of opening gifts is completed, games begin. Here is a picture of my 90-year-old grandpa taking part in the action. He plays a mean game of pinochle!

Onward Christmas!

Next on the Christmas celebration list was a 5-hour drive north to my parents and sister's. We had a day of rest in-between and a leisurely Christmas eve. Thank you mom & dad for your hospitality and good eats!
Here are a few pictures of Christmas day.

swim fan

Pool Anyone?

Family Time ...

We enjoyed several days with the fam over the holidays and as much as we look forward to it and wouldn't trade it, it sure is great to be home -- surrounded by our stuff and our own comforts -- our own thermostat. My parents like it rather warm in their house - 77 degrees. (I love you mom & dad!) Of course, I'm pretty sure they think our year-round 68 degree house is pretty close to the north pole. Funny, I grew up with them in a house that was warm and in the years since living with them I have changed to not be able to handle it. How many other things have changed? Of all those changes, what things am I aware of / able to recall and what things don't I even want to think about? Okay -- way too much for me to reflect on in this post. This was supposed to be lighthearted and about all the fun and family and pictures from Christmas. Back on task.

First Christmas pitstop: My Grandparents. This is always fun. A tradition that started when I was born. I LOVE this Christmas and really miss it when we're not there. They're just a really fun group!

Once all the fun of opening gifts is completed, games begin. Here is a picture of my 90-year-old Grandpa taking part in the action. He plays a mean game of pinochle!

Here is Grandma with two of the cousins, Alex and Travis. Quite handsome gents, don't you think?

We even initiated the new guy, cousin Shannon's fiance. Welcome to the family Kyle!


Next pitstop: Dad & Becky's for another Christmas celebration. Time was WAY too short, but fun was had by all! Good eats (thank you Becky!!) great company and presents. Does it get any better?

These were busy times -- and this was just one day!! More to come, but it's gonna have to wait until tomorrow.

Presents!

That sure didn't last long! He loves his gifts and is hard at work putting the Star Wars Legos together already. He can't imagine what Santa will be bringing. Ohhhh -- to be 7 again! Thank you Grandma Gene for the Illini sweatshirt and Star Wars Legos!




Kabe's main gift from us was a marble run. He's been asking for this a long time -- since he got one from Dollar General over a year ago. Hopefully this brings much pleasure!
Merry Christmas to All and to All a Good Night!

It's TIME!

Tonight is the night we've decided to open presents due to our holiday plans. Kabe will be opening presents from us and from his grandparents. It's SO EXCITING! Kabe can hardly wait!! Of course, Santa Claus will still make his regular stop at his given time -- we have no control over that!
I'll post a few pictures later detailing the evening.

Oh Christmas Tree ...

I love Christmas! I could gush for quite some time about all the things I love about this season -- I'll spare you that at least for now! This year, for lots of reason, mostly physical, a little mental, some emotional, our house is barely decorated (compared to most years) and we purchased a three foot tree. Kabe LOVES it and has declared it can go in his room next year. He even picked out the ornaments. It does feel like we're disgracing the holiday, but I've found myself really focusing on Jesus this year and the reason for this season as well as my relationship with Him. I guess that's not all bad, right?

Pasadena Here We Come!

The Illini are going to the Rosebowl! The Illini are going to the Rosebowl!
I-L-L...I-N-I.

GOOOOO ILLINI!