It is hard to believe that Christmas has now passed. But, I guess that makes sense since Thanksgiving was late this year, leaving me feeling like the holidays just blew by (because they did). It did get colder (if only for a few days) and we did see snow (but it didn't last).
After Thanksgiving, I had a chance to visit the Mac Daddy and Mama Mac in Texas.
It's hard to believe I didn't take any pictures (except for this sign and IYKYK), however I did find a few pictures that were on the mantle that were new to me.
I got back to Chicago just in time for our girls holiday bingo get-together. Rachel came into the city a few hours early so we could have lunch and see the Christmas lights. We decided to eat at Eataly so we could get a little training in for our upcoming trip.
I'm not exactly sure how I did't take photos of all the girls together at Bingo, but we had a great time. And so did Max, as he got lots of Belly rubs.
Nella sent us home with a little goody bag (beyond the Bingo prizes we all won) and I loved how she customized them with a photo of her and you (that's me) together.
And for all those who follow the trees, you will be happy to know that the Packer tree continues to live on.
My brother-in-law had to open a gift from me early so we could complete our baking (since its predecessor was in the dishwasher and my sister did not want to slow things down by waiting for the cycle to be finished).
I would say our cookies this year were a bit abstract, but they tasted fantastic.
On a side note, Kristin and I had to match the entire weekend, from our shoes to our PJs (you'll notice it throughout the blog).
We couldn't forget about the ugly sweater or drinking glasses either. My sweater this year was the Chicago "L" Holiday Train (and the seater also lit up!
We spent a lot of time with Finn.
And he got lots of snuggle from Kristin.
Let's not forget the package-opening headgear.
The lights did light up, but I didn't catch them in every photo.
And of course, we had a few gifts to open.
We found time for football, puzzles, and snacks.
And a game of Joker (which is always competitive an leaves a few of us with bruised egos). Check out the new card holders I bought (we liked them because they stood up, flat).
We also did a bit more shopping and built one more tree. Yes, one more. My new PEEPS tree.
Kristin had been collecting the floral, ribbon, picks, and ornaments for 8 months. The only new acquisition, and a late on at that, was the blue, pink, and purple glitter ribbon, which we bought the day before Christmas at 65% off.
A great time was had by all and upon returning to the city, I was able to make it to dinner with a few of my former colleagues (and now friends).
I hope all of you had a very happy holiday.
And it wouldn't be Cosmo's blog without mentioning that Cosmo was greatly missed. He would have loved to play with his cousin Finn.Here's a throwback to our last Christmas together.
