Merry Christmas!

I am so glad it’s Christmas!  It’s been an awesome day so far, and restful with my family – first ever together with Geoff.  But, it all started yesterday afternoon when I began making gifts for aunts and uncles.  I took a tip from Rose to make Chocolate Almond Biscotti.

I used my FoodBuzz Measuring Spoon to measure out some baking powder.

And closely followed Rose’s recipe.

Mix, mix, mix.

While it baked, Thumper debuted his festive accessories.

All baked and sliced.

Melted chocolate to dip.

Then we drove out to my Mom’s.  I love her tree with all of our ornaments.  It’s like a walk down memory lane every time it goes up!

An elephant for when I volunteered with the Bush campaign in 2004 (I’ll probably get a lot of flack for admitting to that).  An ice skate for when I skated as a child.

 

Two coffees to go as Geoff and I love some java.

Ice cream cone when I scooped ice cream and a soccer girl for when I shot some goals.

 

I got this ornament my senior year of college as I had planned to move to Chicago, and “Santa” always wanted me to remember my roots.

We did a quick turnaround and headed to dinner with my grandmother, aunts & uncles at the Idylwood Grill in Falls Church, VA.  The table was long and allowed everyone to chat.

The restaurant is also known for its wine and eclectic artwork.

We were the first to arrive and took the opportunity to take some family portraits.

And then I sipped some Pinot Noir.

Geoff ordered the Rack of Lamb.

And I ordered the Tilapia.  Yum!

All the girl cousins.

My cousin John was quite festive!

 

Fun, outfit, huh??!?

After dinner we went to a beautiful mass and then home to wrap gifts.  I was the first to get up this morning at 8:30.  Santa came!

 

And brought us lots of gifts for our new home!

 

But, before I dug into them, I followed my mom’s directions for the coffee.  She’s got an old school pot.

 

And had one of my biscottis with my java.

 

Shortly after, everyone else woke up and we began opening presents.  The surprise of the morning – my NEW REBEL CANON CAMERA!  I immediately tested it out.

Scones.

My sister Megan’s cupcake ornament.  She’s quite the baker!

My mom’s decor.  I love this camera!

Off to open more presents and visit my dad!

Merry Christmas to you and yours!