12.25.12
Merry Christmas/Maligayang Pasko! The kids were so good about waiting patiently until the adults got up. First, we took some photos in our matching pajamas (adults included). Then, they ran to their stockings and opened some goodies. We headed to the tree and opened up more presents. We watched the goddaughter sing at the morning mass, headed back for some Christmas preparation and then headed to my aunt's for extended family celebrating. The kids performed their talent show (gymnastics, Jingle Bells, Silent Night, juggling, and the finale--Gangnam Style). The kids made out like bandits (~$18 each in tips!) and then proceeded to open up more presents. The adult cousins participated in a gift exchange (I won a $20 gift card to Starbucks and the hubby won some moonshine with zombie looking strawberries). We had a ton of food and people liked my vegan kare kare (that made me happy). My belly was very full and of course, no Filipino party is complete without taking home leftovers. I loved spending time with my cousins, aunts, uncles and lolas. But, of course, Mama was greatly missed and it was noticeable she wasn't there this year. At the end of the night, the kids each received one of her rosaries. They are really special and mean a lot to the kiddos. Merry Christmas, Mama. We love you.
12.24.12
Santa is coming soon! We checked the radar earlier and he had already visited Scotland and London. We are ready for him. My coz and I spent the morning doing some last minute shopping (including Frango mints in Marshall Field's containers) and spent the afternoon cooking for Christmas Eve dinner and our Christmas get together with family tomorrow. Ate lasagna (both vegan and traditional meat versions were available) and then the kids rocked out to 2012 YouTube Rewind featuring PSY and Gangnam Style. The kids got to open one present each and now we're relaxing with some Shrek 3 and the cousin twins playing tag.
12.23.12
Full day. Met up with the hubby's side of the family for a get together at the Machine Shed (think of it as a Cracker Barrel) and then headed over to his sister's for some dessert. It was great seeing folks we don't get to see very often. Afterwards, we headed to my cousin's where we will be staying for the next few days. I'm bummed I don't have my computer because I can't do any photoshopping while we're here. So, just putting up 1 pic of my cousin's beautiful outdoor Christmas decorations. Well, maybe 2.
12.21.12
21st day of December and we are still here ( : Well, we have to be since my youngest is expecting to lose his tooth soon and wants a visit from the tooth fairy. Not really interested in money, but would like her to leave some fairy dust.
Last day of work and I made it count for 2012--cleaned my office, finished my notes, visited with colleagues, went out for lunch, and later today we're meeting up with friends to exchange gifts and enjoy some appetizers and drinks! Excited!
12.20.12
Day 20 was another full day. Last minute shopping for teachers and caregivers at a very busy Target. But, I think we have everything done...at least I hope so....
12.19.12
Only 6 more days til Christmas! I have to say, getting a good night's rest really does wonders for me. I went to bed at 9:30 last night and woke up at 6:30 today. I felt more alert and more excited about the holidays. Getting a box full of Christmas cookies also helped. Those cookies were really good and even included one of my favorites, a Mexican wedding cookie/almond crescent cookie. Not the same shape, but definitely the taste. Reminded me of a fantastic bakery in Western Springs called Kirschbaum's. They have the best sprinkle and almond crescent cookies. I also had fun opening up Christmas cards and hanging them on our berry garland. Maybe I'll take a pic of that tomorrow. I love seeing children grow through the years, reading people's holiday newsletters, and decorating our house with these fun images. Can't wait to get more in the next few days.
