Christmas Season....Part Two.....Birthdays, Friends, and Fun

Before my New Years post,  I wanted to get in my part two of my Christmas Season update.  This is just a few miscellaneous pictures that I wanted to share with you all.

Here is my nephew Paul (on the left) and my youngest Dominic, nicknamed Encino Man by his work family.  We celebrated Paul's 20th birthday this month at a local Chinese restaurant.  I can't believe this amazing young man is 20 years old!  They have been friends since birth and still are as close as brothers, living together while going to college.  Sigh!

Paul with his parents, my sister and brother-in-law 

 My sister also celebrated a birthday this month.  It was during a nasty snowstorm that ended in a 72 car pile up on the interstate right near our house.  Many people stranded for hours and everyone else had to be re-routed right past our road.  That combined with the weather, didn't allow for any of the kids to come home for the party, so we just had a small gathering with my sister-in-laws and my parents, since we all live next door to each other :)

My friend Michele hosted a cookie exchange!  We had so much fun!  It was nice to get together during the holidays.

From the front, left to right....

Gideon, Julie (my sil) and Lori

Back, left to right.....

Connie (my sister), Me, Angie, and Michele (our hostess)

I got a manicure!  Being a dog groomer, it is not worth getting my nails done....ever.  Every year at Christmas time, I always say I am going to get my nails done, but never want to spend money on somehting I can do myself.  This year, I thought dammit, I'm gunna do it......And I did!  It was nice to be pampered and I loved it!

Lastly, there has been a lot of snuggle times with Ava and our coffee :)

This season has been a wonderful time for me to relax with family and friends.  I remember times in the past, when the kids where little, that I barely remember December.  Now a days I look forward to the time between Thanksgiving and Christmas.  Look forward to the warmth and love that it brings, and also the yummy goodies that come with it :)

xoxo