Very, Very Merry

I have gladness and warmth in my heart after a celebrating a wonderful Christmas with so many people that I love. On Saturday morning I went with Hunter to visit our grandparents. We were greeted with their jolly laughter and the meal that they cook for us each year at Christmas: fried chicken, mashed potatoes, peas and corn, and biscuits. Mmmm. According to tradition, we were given a tour of their house after lunch, stopping at each new Christmas decoration for a full description and story. I wish I had a picture of their house to post, because it would be impossible to exaggerate how many decorations that they put up. You have never met two people who love Santa more than Ruby and Al Rivers. Last year, their house actually made local news.

Saturday evening, I headed to Greensboro to spend some time with Mike and the whole Mac crew. Some of the highlights include sushi and bowling with everyone, driving around to admire Christmas lights, the ornament dinner (a Mac tradition where everyone receives a new ornament), eating a TON of homemade cookies, and Christmas (eve) morning.



Later on in the day, I headed back home for a few more events. First, I went over to some friends' for dinner and socializing. Dinner was an enormous feast and the house was bursting with excitement from all the kids. This is a beautiful slide show that Lori made of Christmas Eve and the entire season.

After dinner, I went to Wiene and Phil's house. I have spent this evening with their family every Christmas since I was born, and it was as fun as ever. Allyn and I spent most of the evening cracking up over one thing or another, which I think we both needed. Michael just got back from a two month trip to Australia and New Zealand with Garreth and had lots of interesting stories to share. With a revolving cast of characters that join us, it is always a really special time to reflect on the year and catch up with each other.

Christmas morning (round 2) was also very special. I woke up at Kat's house, watched the kids play with their Santa gifts and ate an awesome breakfast. This was followed by a quick visit to Ashlyn's house before meeting Mike at home to start cooking. The Macs came over to our house for Christmas dinner and a round of Apples to Apples (a great card game). What a perfect way to end a wonderful holiday weekend.



As fun as it all was, I am looking forward to packing up all the Christmas stuff, taking down the tree, and enjoying the last, peaceful days of 2007.