We are lucky to have two great Christmas celebrations this year. The second was in North Carolina with Gretchen’s parents and her sister’s family.

Big tree, big family, good memories. My parents hosted a great Christmas celebration.

We only had 2 inches of snow at Christmas, but my kids and my nieces and nephews made the most of it.

We are having a lazy Saturday morning. Not enough snow or energy to get outside right now.

Busy day yesterday - Reindeer Days at Linden Hills, chores, football and a night capped with the family decorating the Christmas tree. 

The scale of Chicago is impressive.

Waiting for pizza at Giordano’s. Looking forward to getting back to the hotel and starting my book tonight.

Leif had outpatient surgery this week. When he came out, he looked pretty uncomfortable. But soon he was asking for a Lego movie and he perked up, before falling asleep at home.

I was reading my iPhone on the couch when I heard a friendly voice say, “Hey dad!” When I looked up, I saw this creature creeping towards me. It’s the eyes that really got me.

We headed out to the annual Halloween party at our local high school. There were games, a great magic show, and hot dogs. Lars went as a ninja, Brita as Hermione, and Leif went as Yoda.