Rock Chalk Christmas

There's a quote that says, "True friendship isn't about being inseparable. It's about being separated and nothing changes." I can honestly say that we have true friends. Thousands of miles separate us, and we all lead busy, overly active lives thanks to careers and children, but we make the effort to stay in touch. There are definitely periods of time when the phone calls are few, but a quick text or family picture shared online keeps us all linked when the going gets tough.

Over the last couple years, we've made an earnest effort to gather at least once a year for a reunion. Yes, we missed one another. That's what spawned the idea of an annual reunion, but it wasn't until that first gathering in Napa that we truly realized just how much we missed interacting with our dear friends. For this Holiday Reunion, we made the trek to Kansas City since that's where the majority of our out-of-town friends live, and as an added bonus we could also visit some seasonably appropriate weather. It's really hard to feel the Christmas spirit in 80-degree weather!

Speaking of visits, there was an extra special visitor awaiting our arrival in Kansas...Santa Claus paid us an early visit to double check the children's wish lists and confirm whether they had landed on the under the naughty or nice columns. Since Santa brought each child a little present, I'd say things were looking good for them on Christmas morning. Although, Baylor seemed a little nervous!

While there were no tears, Grant certainly wasn't fond of Santa. He wanted nothing to do with the big guy! Each time we tried for a picture, Grant pleaded to be rescued from Santa's arms. I hope he didn't take it personally!

This is the best one! If you can zoom in, Grant's face is priceless! Priceless!

Another unsuccessful attempt at a smiling picture on Santa's lap. Grant just didn't trust the beard!

The boys LOVED the KU basketball jerseys that Santa brought for them. How did he know we had plans to watch our beloved Jayhawks play?!

Of course, Santa is a very busy man this time of the year and had to be on his way, but we too were about to pile into a sleigh. We were off to tour the city's Christmas light displays! Seriously? What a fun night!

This was the first limo ride for a few of the children, but you'd never know it. Watch out Hollywood! We've got a few that seem destined for stardom.

How do you possibly top a night like that? It was perfection! Luckily, there is no shortage of family fun in Kansas City. We decided on ice skating at Crowne Center. This was another first for a few of the kids. My boys did fairly well. They didn't resemble Michelle Kwon gliding over the ice, but they stayed  upright for the most part.

Our visit to the Power & Light District that night had to be the highlight of the trip for all the guys (big & small). This was our first Jayhawk basketball game, and it was a proud moment for Anh. He explained that the Sprint Center arena wouldn't have the intense energy you feel when the team plays at home at the Allen Fieldhouse in Lawrence, but it was great to introduce the boys to that level of passion. Baby steps, right? Maybe we'll make it to Allen Fieldhouse next year?

Now that their inner Jayhawk pride was sparked, we kept the ball of school spirit rolling and made a day trip to Lawrence to visit the University of Kansas campus. Anh & I took Jaxon as a baby to tour the campus.

Then, I took Baylor for a few campus pictures once when I visited without Anh. I know! It's not right, but he was busy and couldn't join me. At least we have cute baby Baylor KU pictures as a result of my selfishness.

So, this was our pilgrimage for baby Grant KU pictures!

This trip did more than just provide a little Holiday spirit, it cemented some of the friendships we value most. Time may be short and distances wide, but true friendship can withstand it all! There is no better gift!

Gobble Gobble

Have you ever seen such beauty? I think this has to be my best turkey yet, and for that, I'm thankful! The real blessing was having family gather to enjoy my efforts in the kitchen. There are thousands of movies with scenes depicting holiday family gatherings. Our favorites are comedies. Possibly because that's what most accurately reflects our family gatherings. Sure, they might not all turn out picture-perfect despite my Type-A efforts to make Martha Stewart proud, but the fact that family puts in the effort to make the trek and spend the time together is appreciated.

We've never had a squirrel come flying out of the Christmas tree nor have we burnt the house down frying a turkey, but there is lots of laughter. Usually at the expense of Aunt Kelly or Grandfather, but laughter all the same. It wouldn't be family if the occasional argument didn't occur. That's life, right? Let's just say it keeps things "interesting." We just strive to not be too "interesting."

This year, we had the added fun of watching Grant enjoy his first Thanksgiving meal. Since he's still new to solids, I'm not sure he was impressed. Man, I guess I'll hope to receive his thumb's up next year, and I thought Grandfather was the critic!

They Say It's Your Birthday

The proverbial clock is ticking, and Anh's 30's are running out!!! Today, we celebrated his final 364 days before he coasts "over the hill." At least the sun was shining as we all prepared for the end...

Halloween Hayride

I'm not sure who has the better grin...the jack-o-lantern or the 3 silly boys? Ok, it's not even close. Those boys steal the show!

No one in our family really enjoys getting their hands dirty, but we decided to embrace the Season and roll up our sleeves for pumpkin carving. It went well thanks to Dad! Not surprising given his occupation. I certainly hope he's skilled at slicing, dicing, and carving.

Much debate went into this year's Halloween costumes, but eventually Jaxon & Baylor decided on being ninjas. Yes, Jaxon was a ninja last year, but this year, he's a white ninja. Baylor happily donned Jaxon's hand-me-down costume from last year, and while I realize it might be lacking in creativity, I thought the idea of 3 ninjas was cute. So, there you have it...My three ninjas!!!

What we lack in creativity, we make up for with cuteness!

Since our street is still undeveloped, we happily accepted our friends' invitation to join in the Halloween hayride. The parents & babies were able to sit back and ride from house to house while the children ran off some of the sugar rush. Talk about an ideal setup!

I'm definitely going to borrow the hayride idea in the future!

As expected, Grant didn't really get the concept of trick-or-treating, and Anh happily used his littlest ninja to reward his own sweet tooth. Better enjoy it while it lasts, dear! Your candy embezzling days are numbered!