Christmas Wrap-up

Home again after some wonderful days in Houston to celebrate the holidays with family! We packed a lot into those days, and it began on Thursday when we saw Dana for the first time since Aug. While she looks pretty much the same, I know this experience has changed her; seeing all she has seen and looked at the world from a different angle opens ones eyes.

Our trip over was along the back way, so less hectic - until we missed a turn and ended up way out of our way. Doesn't matter, we got there in time to be with the kids when they woke up from their naps. Erin made some delicious taco salads for dinner, and then it was souvenir time! Dana brought some beautiful pieces of pottery from Egypt, a lovely picture frame and some foreign coins. Erin and I got colorful purses from her trip to Singapore; I now realize all the pictures I missed taking, but I carry them always in my memory!

The next day was to be our Christmas as the Johnsons were leaving the next day for Dallas to be with Gregg's family. We had sausage balls for breakfast - our tradition. Since we had cooking to do for the LaMore gathering, Dana and I braved the crowds at HEB to finish shopping. Not too bad, actually! Once we got home, and my cake was in the oven, it was time to open gifts. Erin put on some delicious green beans and potatoes, while Gregg cooked steak on the grill. A feast for us in the making.

Gifts were wonderful; Andy did great shopping at James Avery, the kids liked their toys, and the older kids seemed happy with their items. It's funny how a little "robot" dog can occupy a kid! In the middle of all the excitement, the realtor called; Gregg and Erin had received an offer on their house, and she needed to come over! We kept the kids out of their way - kind of - and ate when all was said and done. After finishing preparing the rest of our food and giving the kids a short nap, off we went to the Hampton.

Most of the family was there - Mom looked beautiful with a new haircut and pretty pink sweater. It seemed to overwhelm her some, and after our usual gift-card exchange, she was ready for bed. Some of us went over to Chris' house for a little visit, and then back to the Johnsons.

Christmas Eve started with the Johnsons loading up and getting on their way. The three of us relaxed until it was time to get out of the house. We took Dana to her favorite Mexican restaurant; Lupe Tortilla's - wow! Yummy enchiladas and fajitas! Then, some shopping at REI for books for our desert hiker, then on to Christmas Eve at Houston's First. Lovely music; overwhelmingly beautiful. Usually I sing with all my heart, and for the most part, I could just listen and look. One of Dana's friends met us there with saved seats, so we could just waltz in and be comfortable. On the way home, we stopped for Starbucks cocoa and Red Box movies. Too tired to watch but 1 of them, we fell in bed.

Sunday morning was just like any other Sunday. We worshipped at Memorial Church of Christ, where we saw some of Dana's friends from A&M. Mark is living in Peru now, and will be married soon in Montana. You have to wait in line to visit Mark, but it is worth it when your turn comes. Lunch at Luby's was a first for me (on Christmas Day!), then we went home. A brief rest and a change of clothes sent us back to the Hampton. There, we picked up Mom and Dad and their care-giver and went for dinner at Denny's. (Dad loves his poached eggs!!) After a short visit, we were in the car once again.... to the movie! Another friend of Dana's met us there, and we enjoyed "We Bought a Zoo!" Good choice, Chris!

Yesterday was our last day there. Dana and I headed out to the outlet mall to do some shopping for her trip back to Egypt, and I threw in some birthday shopping for her. It began to rain pretty good, and we were hungry, so we headed back to Erin's. While the parking lot was about half empty when we arrived, it was like Field of Dreams when we left; cars lined up out on the highway! At home, the lunch we planned on having Christmas Day was finally prepared and enjoyed, complete with Welch's Sparkling Grape Soda! Yummy if I may say so! We finished watching Super 8 (fun movie!), and by then the Johnsons were almost home.

So. We waited. Didn't want to pass up a chance to get one more grandbaby fix! Just a few minutes means a lot! Finally, we were on our way. Heavy traffic along with the end of the Christmas music made the trip go fast. At last the Spurs came on the radio, and Pleasanton was in view.

Today, I am so grateful for this Christmas. I came home with such sweet things from people who love me, video of Liz and Bladen to keep me happy, and a peaceful spirit. My daughter is safely home from across the globe, and I had her with me for several days. All of us are healthy, with dreams of a new Johnson in the mix for next year! I can't think of one thing more that I would want!

Merry Christmas, everyone!