Birthdays, Christmas Prep and Other Happenings

Over the years I've toned down my need for a crazy birthday.  While I've been high-maintenance in the past, things are getting easier and just a quiet day at home with no expectations is what I want most now.  I must be maturing, in my 35-years.  THIRTY FIVE!   Why does that sound so serious??  I feel like I'm supposed to be all grown up.  Some days I feel old (those lines on my face!, white hairs on my head that come out of nowhere, my back that kills after I've been sitting on the floor for five minutes...) but at the same time I feel like I'm just getting started!  So the month started off with our Santa visit on my birthday.  That's been my new tradition the past two years.  A simple day at home, dinner with Brian, then take the kids to see Santa.  It was freezing and had been snowing all day.  After a snuggle day on the couch watching the first real snow, we were the only ones there to meet with the big guy.

We got McKay sick and better early in the month.  Better sooner than later!  Poor little guy.  We had several days at home just hanging out.

Things were a little different with Grandma and Grandpa gone on their mission this Christmas.  Our party going was minimal - just two the entire month.  The extended Argyle family didn't do their Christmas thing because Judy is usually the one who heads that up.

Melinda pulled things together for the immediate family and we had our traditional turkey dinner at the mothership without Mr. and Mrs. Founder of the Feast.  Shauna brought a little wooden tree to set the mood.  Granted, it wasn't the way that grandma does it (fancy plates, glasses, napkin rings, chocolates and treats on trays all over waiting for us... but it was fun to be with everyone just the same.

We had such a nice time.  The kids were excited to give and get their presents.  Crystal about had a heart attack that I didn't put Jonah's name in the exchange.  Luckily he was ok with it!  Gavin got the Ice Age 2 movie, fruit snacks and spirit sticks from Landen.  McKay got a Batman toy from Jorja.  Everyone was happy and the feeling was good.  We really love spending time with siblings and cousins.

Later in the month we got to go to Scott's party with Brian's childhood friends.  They are always so funny when they get together.  I love getting together with people that we love.  Having just a few parties to look forward to, shopping done early, Brian home more...  It's been a great month.