Playing Catch Up

I'll admit that I've been remiss in keeping up to date with my blog.  Let's just say that life can be a bit crazy, and although I think about writing frequently,  even the best of intentions can get sidelined.

The Christmas season is officially over, but before too much time passes, I'd like to present some of the highlights from our holidays.

We had such a lovely trip to Arizona, albeit brief, and I had hoped to blog a bit more about our travels, but we spent nearly every free minute with family, and the internet connection in the room was SO slow that it wasn't worth even trying to post.

But here are some of our memorable moments:

Marty got to spend some time with both of his uncles:  Uncle Dick, who was thrilled with the gift Marty presented to him.

and Uncle Ray, the big mug on the right.

We briefly drove through Glendale to view the famous "Glitters".  They did not disappoint.

Enjoyed a delightful lunch and entertaining conversation with family,

as well as  Christmas caroling with the cousins

 along with Aunt Mary and Uncle Dick.

We finished the trip with a walking tour of the Luminaria display at the Desert Botanical Gardens.

Dazzling, for sure!

Once home, it was time to delve into holiday preparations:   Of course, we needed a tree.

As you can see, the end result was beautiful

Of course, the house needed to be decorated

And what's Christmas without cookies?

And Bolbaki for Christmas Eve Dinner.......

I'll let you guessed who helped.

The night was perfect!

Christmas Day was filled with entertainment: 

Great food shared with great friends

A little sparkly

Lots of celebrating

And, of course, fun with a pig.  

The night presented a rare full moon which managed to surface briefly through the mist.

Then it was time to make the drive to Pittsburgh for New Year's eve, which we spent with my in-laws.

Fun times, for sure!

Couldn't miss special moments with the princess

 and Chewbakka

and a new piggy for the princess to enjoy.

Saturday found us celebrating the anticipated arrival of a future set of granddaughters who are due to make an appearance sometime in the spring.

Much fun was had by all, and this little one certainly enjoyed the festivities as much as the adults!

And, luckily, there was some quality time with grandchildren prior to our leaving the next day.

Whew!  That was a LOT of activity! No wonder I haven't found the time to blog!  I got exhausted just writing this!