The first few hours of Christmas at home

This year we decided to stay home for the holidays (in Austin). My parents went to see the new addition to our family (Rishi) in KY. I can't help but laugh as I type KY because all I can picture is Sam in the I <3 KY t-shirt and how funny that was....I can be somewhat of a child sometimes...back to Christmas.

We made a trip to SA last week so that we could see the ortiz grand parents, visit jacqueline, ryan, mia and reid, virginia and jonathon. It was a very short stop but it was the only time that we were going to see my parents before the left to KY. (hahahaha).

Courtney and I have been laboring a little because we wanted to give jake his first real desk and chair and that led to getting a few other things. Courtney used craig's list to vanish some of his current stuff and make some additional room that we still hadn't gotten to since I joined the familia. While there, she found a couple of perfect pieces for jake that needed a little work. Courtney has some expertise in refinishing and making things look really good so we agreed that was a good way to go. And she was right on. She's done most of the work on the desk and side table but I've been able to share in the experience as well. What a task? All the getting ready for Christmas, cards, gifts, gift wrapping, selling, buying, and planning a short jaunt to San Diego has left us feeling slightly tired. Last night we got all ready to go to church and realized that we messed up the time. It's the only service that we would have been able to go to at our own church and we missed it. We caught most of it online....because our church is so progressive, but really missed being there and seeing a lot of our friends that were sure to attend. It was kindof a bummer for the evening. So instead we got the kids up to bed a little earlier than normal and started back at our furniture duties.

...Veronica and Sam's new baby arriving, the extra time that I've had off from work and the time that we have been able to spend with family and friends has been such a blessing.

Since we're leaving early early the day after Christmas to visit the San Diego Zoo and Legoland and other sites, we let the kiddos start opening gifts today. They were thrilled, of course. Most of their gifts are modest which we like since they have so much already. Thank you to all that thought to send something. They kinda like it when they get extra gifts. :)

....just thinking, with the family so spread out this year everyone should be ready to skype. :)

Merry Christmas!!