The 22nd-25th was very busy for us. We were back and forth to Dave's family, my family, his dad's side, my mom's side, my dad's side, his mom's side, but they were great days and I wouldn't trade all of that running around. As it stands, I don't think I'd know what to do with myself at the holidays if we weren't running around. LOL And, thankfully DJ was really a sport about things (missed naps, early or late dinners, even later bedtimes etc.) and he was in great spirits. He even learned to open his own presents. It was so cute when he started putting the wrapping paper back ON the gift.

One thing that I love about the holidays, is that it's a chance to get to see family, some of whom I only see once or twice a year. Which is why I'd never stop that running around, because I never want to get to that point that I don't see my aunts, uncles or cousins. My mom reminded me that once everyone else gets married it may be impossible, but until then, I remain optimistic that we will always get together. There's a huge age range, since my youngest cousin is about 13 I believe, but never the less, it's family and I think it's sad to lose touch. (As my mom has done with a lot of her family.) This is why I think having an annual BBQ or something of the sort will become tradition. I don't want to be like my mom and once I get married and have kids never entertain people. I absolutely love it, the stress and chaos and planning and the whole event itself. Anyway, I am lucky because although there are some of us that aren't so far away in age and some who are, I am proud to say they are all great people- as are my aunts and uncles. Not everyone can say that. I have a few cousins in college, one studying to be an MD, one who is in a band, others are doing really well in sports or with their careers. I guess it sounds silly to say, but I am proud of them because again, not everyone can say that...about being great people and all.

Lastly, we rounded out the holidays with a dirty 30's birthday party for my brother in law Kris. My sister and her friends who helped her plan and execute the party did a really fabulous job! My sister is so great at entertaining! They had tons of great party food (where I ate at yummy red pepper & avocado sandwich), Nicole made a cake that was two bunnies humping (I forgot my camera!), there was trivia, kareoke and Wii. Oh, and a prize for the person with the best naughty t-shirt. Mine said "Voted most flexible by your boyfriend". Dave's said, "Strippers love my pole". My brother won a prize for, "I'm shy, but I've got a big dick". There were tons of great, funny shirts! Anyway, it was one of the better parties I've been to (how could it NOT be with pitchers full of sex on the beach?!) and I was happy for Kris that it turned out so well. There were at least 30 people there to wish him well. Maybe I am sappy today, but again I am blessed in that the newest addition to our family, Kris, really is an awesome person. My sister is lucky, as are we for having him be a part of our wacky family. Who else could introduce us to the beauty of wearing a naughty shirt?!