We went to Miami for Vanessa's baby shower to welcome sweet Isadora. Flawless weather in south Florida, enjoying the sunset at south beach while catching up with the Miami Bravos, meeting Vane's friends and chillin' with cousin Gee. Abu took us shopping at Macy's, dance parties with Pops and presents from Tio Edgar. Abby found coconuts and star fruit. It was a nice visit. We felt the weather drop as we drove up the state on Tuesday. The VanWies met us for a chilly TCC dinner ending in the living room. I started Christmas shopping officially on Wednesday. Follow me for more parenting fails. Remind me in October to get crackin'. This procrastination left me feeling like a very stressed Scrooge. Phil did a great job trying to get me back into the spirit...ironic, I know. We shopped together in the cold rain...him basically following me around 2 thrift stores and Walmart. That evening we kicked off the neighborhood progressive dinner party with some chili. It was a smaller group than last year. Heavy apps at the Langstons. Dessert at the Strassors. A night cap at Tray's. It was a good night. Stephanie had us over for lunch on Thursday. Voss went to his friend, Abbie's for a gingerbread play date. The kids had another gingerbread play date with Al & Linda. Oh, the sugar! Phil and I went to the Rachels Christmas party. I didn't last very long. I was partied out and stressed about slacking. Santa had some serious thoughts about bringing coal to some of the Bravo children. Snowball had to send some threats to get behavior in line. I think it worked. Phil took the kids bowling on Friday while I did some last minute shopping in Mandarin. I wrapped gifts and listened to The Happiest Man on Alive. The VanWies had us over for dinner to enjoy oyster stew and s'mores. It was freezing for maybe 3 nights in a row. I'm pretty sure I lost my oregano. We had a lazy morning on Christmas eve building a fire, watching the Christmas Story. Phil and I did a WD run for Christmas groceries. We picked up my parents and went to the 4pm childrens mass. Marly was an usher. Abby an altar server. Ellie read. I passed out Dynamic Catholic books. It was nice to all be together and hear Carolyn's awesome singing voice. The Nixons had us over for a Christmas Eve dinner. I made a buffalo chicken dip. Jess made bison sliders. She did a cute pass the gift game for the kids. We came home and opened the gifts under the tree. The kids were so sweet in giving to each other. Coupons are my favorite. There were also candles, jewelry boxes and nerf guns. Santa did come and brought Snowball back with him. Christmas morning came early and quick. We snuggled up to watch It's a Wonderful Life. Turns out I'm allergic to poinsettas. We had to bring them inside with the freeze. I ended up taking benedryl and going back to sleep. Marly made Jesus' Birthday cake. We went to my parent's house for Christmas lunch. It was so special making dad's Caesar salad with him. We did a Cajun gift exchange. Lots of fun gifts like Sudoku, puzzles, chocolate, baking supplies, band aids and socks. We came home and watched a Christmas Carol. Early bedtime for all. Here are our photos of the week.