We have been busy celebrating the holiday season with family and friends, and it has been such a great season so far. The Cheijs had their Toys for Tots party (complete with Marine Corps volunteers) in their beautiful new home. MMMM, loved playing with toys and a chocolate fountain while sipping on candy cane martinis! We helped to host a party with the Peters, The Moores, and Kalee, which was tons of fun and a huge success. Granted, I didn't eat enough of the gourmet spread for the number of apple pie martinis, but that's why we have water, Alka Seltzer, and naps. Last weekend was also the IAT holiday party at the newly remodeled and reopened Oasis. It was a nice festive time on an early Sunday evening (even if it did rain). The kids enjoyed Santa and I got to MC the trivia contest and hand out prizes, which was a load of fun. Poor Terry toughed it out and was social although I'm sure he would've rather been catching up on his sleep after the night before. This weekend, we will be finishing up the last of our Christmas shopping at the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar---one of my favorite Austin holiday events---while listening to Jimmy LaFave rock the Austin Convention Center. Terry has to work some on Saturday to make sure that everything that Santa shipped via UPS arrives on time, but Sunday will be reserved for a wine tour in the Texas hill country for Tucker's birthday. I am looking forward to seeing the Christmas lights in Fredericksburg. Monday night should be another opportunity to see beautiful lights since Terry has agreed to take me to the Trail of Lights in Zilker Park this year. I am crossing my fingers that it won't rain on us. Thursday night will be Casey and Marissa's annual Elf-viewing party. Not sure why I get so much enjoyment watching Will Ferrell wear tights and drink syrup, but I love it almost as much as A Christmas Story. ("You'll shoot your eye out!") Terry will have to work on Christmas eve, but Christmas Day we will head for Houston to spend the holiday with my dad and Elizabeth. I am soooo anxious to meet their new shelter puppy! I know that The Fur will enjoy having a playmate. Mama Linda and Newman will be headed our way after Christmas for some serious eating, celebrating, shopping, and football watching to round out the holiday. Whew!!! I feel like I need a nap after all that.