"a-giddy-up" -Cosmo Kramer (Sienfeld)

It didn't take long for Andy and me to sink back into our regimented routine of life after all of the Christmas hubbub (that's right. hubbub) was over. I was kind of sad that the long mornings and late nights came to an end. I even complained about how dull things seem after all the traveling and fun things we got to do during the winter break.

Yesterday, Andy and I woke up, ate a huge breakfast and ran 8 miles together. We met our good friends, Tim and Sabrina, in Seattle for a great night of church, authentic Neopolitan pizza (with only the freshest ingredients shipped straight from Italy-wink, wink, T and S), and great conversation over coffee and dessert.

The whole day was a fun and exciting gift--just like Christmas. What a selfish, forgetful, lame-o idea to think that life is dull or that I don't have enough. If I can wake up with my great hubby and get out of a warm bed, it's Christmas. If me, my family or friends aren't sick, poor, or dying today, it's Christmas. I guess it really is a spirit that doesn't end January 1st. Everyday is Christmas.

To CA and Back Again

Andy and I flew back to Washington yesterday afternoon after a freakishly fast winter break. We crammed in so much fun stuff, that explaining everything would be similar to retelling someone a dream...which we all know is only interesting to the person that experienced it. So, I will instead explain some conclusions that Andy and I have arrived at:

First, we have taken a lot of ownership in our role as the aunt and uncle. With our fams combined, we are proud to be the visitors of 20 nieces and nephews. It is so fun to get the giggles, games, and bear hugs from all of our sweeties-and none of the responsibility :)

Second, we have some pretty fun big sisters and brothers that know how to welcome their guests and spoil their family.

Third, San Francisco is the prettiest city in the world. Andy and I spent a couple of days there walking the hills and climbing the steps, and we even got to see a showing of the famous "Beach Blanket Babylon" (Thanks Dean and Bonnie!). And to boot, Bonnie showed me some insane-o thrift stores in some of the city's wealthiest neighborhoods. Lucky jeans for 27 bucks!!

Fourth, a New Years Eve with family, friends, expensive vodka, 4different kinds of popcorn, and hula hooping is just as fun as clubbing till the break of dawn.

Fifth, it is possible to use a trailor closet door and a knee board as sleds. Belfair style.

Sixth, airborn doesn't necessarily prevent colds. But a good run outside can clear your head right up!

Last, we realized how simple Andy and I's life is together and just how much we enjoy that. We have more that we could ask for with our family and friends and all the love that surrounds us.