Texas Holiday

Under eight hours from Lawrence, Kansas to Dallas, Texas.

Southbound 35.

We were a bit hesitant to make the trip in the car with an extremely active 17-month old, but she did so much better than expected. The primary duration of the trip was occupied with books (two gym bags full!) and toys (likewise!). Had one rough patch at the end, but I called my sister who sang to LBD for 20 minutes. Her singing was made bearable only because it ceased the crying.  Thank you, Rachel.

My girl.

The last time we were in Texas was March. In March, I had a little baby who couldn't yet walk or talk.

My girl is growing up.

We went to an aquarium with my Dad a couple days before Christmas...

She absolutely loved it.

The fish, the turtles, sea horses, sting rays.... I have an affinity for sting rays. They so effortless in water. Like birds gliding on a breeze. There were plenty of little viewing pockets in the tanks for an even closer look.

And then along came the night before Christmas with all it's trimmings...

Grammy made sure LBD was fashioned from curls to toes for the event.

Chez Santa made an appearance.

6am Christmas morning.

I heard LBD wake. She immediately sat up in her crib and looked over at the bed I was laying in.

"Do you think Santa came to visit last night?" I asked.

"YEAH!"

Do you want to go see if there are presents under the tree?"

"Yeah. YEAH! YEAH!"

Just when I start to feel old, or tired, or stressed, or like a grinch, she always brings me back around.

Back to magic and wonder.

We returned home from our holiday on Monday night.

Had old friends over for lunch Tuesday.

Went back to work that evening.

Unpacking, cleaning, catching up on laundry,

Back to life.

On to the New Year.