<p>OK, CC Moms and Dads… how did it go?</p>
<p>It was lovely. A Florida Christmas- we ate by the pool. We had our neighbors (they have two teenage kids as well) over for dinner, as well as my parents. It’s been warm. Kids went surfing in the late morning. After dinner, the young adults all went to a popular surf shop (open 24 hours a day, all year), skateboard shopping. Tonight we’re going to put all the leftovers out and have a microwave free-for-all, and then toss the rest.</p>
<p>I feel like I’ve gained a few pounds, though. This morning I went out for a run, and now I’m going to the Y. Yikes.</p>
<p>We had a great time here in So. Cal. I hosted and it was a warm 66-degrees with clear skies and not too much east wind blowing. I did all the cooking this year, which went well because for once I started the day before. It was great having family over, and our first “boyfriend” at the holidays experience went well (D is 17; S at 20 has never invited a guest for the holidays yet). I’m tired today so after a nice long walk with H, D and I will hit up a movie and just relax (with leftovers for dinner tonight). I don’t go back to work until Jan. 7!!</p>
<p>It went well. I did make all the desserts ahead so it was easier than last year. Our “first boy friend” also came over.</p>
<p>Thanks to CC parents who suggested AirZooka as a great gift. I gave it to my husband and son, and they loved it!</p>
<p>It was amazing to see how carefully and thoughtfully my semi-adult children worked to find just the right presents for each other, and for their parents and grandparents. I had not quite realised that we are beyond the time of me giving a family gift. Without asking or being asked, they all created or purchased gifts for every one else- it was very warm and fuzzy</p>
<p>This year I sent an email to all of my friends before our xmas party to ask them not to bring presents for us or for our children because we would not be giving any out either. This has been the most relaxing xmas for me. I took 2 days off and I did what I wanted - spend time with my family and friends, instead of grabbing everything off stores’ shelfs. I only received 2 gifts from my husband and children, and they are exactly what I wanted.</p>
<p>I love the days after Christmas. I have so much food leftover that I don’t have to cook for a few days. I received an Eric Clapton 2007 DVD and his autobiography book for Christmas. I’m trying to read it but I can’t seem to get any traction. I just eat, sleep, surf the web and back to eat, sleep. Just total bliss!</p>
<p>A lovely white Christmas here in New England! Christmas lights look so pretty with all the snow…</p>