holiday highlights

It's been a whirlwind few weeks for us as I'm sure it has been for everyone! It seems like Christmas was just here all of the sudden whether we were ready or not.

Ben's mom had hip replacement surgery two weeks ago so we've been trying to help out with dinners and "elder care" fairly often. Anne supervised while I made our holiday tablecloth and it was nice to have her guidance and it was a good distraction for her while she lays and heals.


We had a quiet Christmas Eve at our house after Ben got off work. We feasted of Parmesan & macadamia nut crusted salmon (a dish we first ate at Duke's in Malibu), asparagus and mashed sweet potatoes. I set the table with our china (the 3rd or 4th time we've used it in 6 years I think) too so that was a treat! We then headed off to church.

We celebrated Christmas morning at our house and then headed to Ben's parents house for Christmas brunch, etc. Michael and Abigail arrived Saturday so we celebrated Christmas Part Three on Sunday with my family. Abigail (now 5) is quite the little girl. She loves coloring, Barbies, mermaids and is a very good little traveler with daddy (a 9 hour ride from PA to IL).
Ben's sister Sarah and boyfriend Scott arrived Sunday after travel delays driving in from CO. We celebrated Christmas Part Four with them on Monday night.

Everyone departed for home today which is always sad so we're getting back to "normal" and prepping for the beginning of a new decade. 2009 has come and gone! Hello, 2010!