Elizabeth and I made our annual trek to The Nutcracker ballet. I treasure that time with her. The dancers were good, of course, but Elizabeth was the most lovely person I saw that day.
Michael continues to impress with basketball. His freshman team has lost only once, his JV team only twice this season. Michael easily holds his own competing against JV teams comprised of sophomores and juniors. He has much to be proud of.
A couple of months ago, Angie said she didn't want to host any get togethers during the winter holidays because it would be too painful without David. About a month ago, she had a change of heart and said she wanted to have Christmas at her house. She prepared a huge meal (I have been informed by my children that I need to make the chicken casserole dish she prepared "at least twice a week."), we hung out the whole day as a family, and even had time to complete a 500 piece puzzle. It was a beautiful day, and I admire Angie's unrelenting strength so very much.
Steven decided the dogs needed to dress up for the Christmas gathering at Angie's. I can't believe we have turned into "those people", ones who buy clothing for their pets. I make myself feel better by believing it is only because they need to be warm during the sub-freezing evening walks.
After at least a 16-year hiatus, Michael revived our Christmas village! It really adds festive cheer upstairs. And seeing it makes me realize it's been so worth it, having Steven lug all the pieces around to the five houses we have lived in since originally buying most of them.
We spent Christmas Day as a family of four. Well, we spent the afternoon together. At 1:00 p.m., I finally woke up Michael so we could open gifts. He was well rested after his 15 hours of sleep. Maybe it's genetic, as Elizabeth slept 16 hours the day before. They must have some mighty comfortable mattresses. We have three trees each year, and my favorite by 100% is the one decorated with the children's photos through the years and the glass hummingbirds. Sometimes I just stand in front of it for long stretches of time and reminisce about their childhood and about my Dad.
The day after Christmas, Terry and Linda brought us all to Cattleman's, the steakhouse that just opened in Georgetown. Afterward, everyone came to our house for dessert and gifts. Steven and the children have another week before returning to work and school. My sabbatical begins then as well. I hope 2017 is the best year for all of us. Sending you much love.
