Friends, please pardon the scarcity of my posts lately. The holiday season is traditionally a busy time of year, and since Rafael was born, it's gotten even busier for our family. Some of you may remember that both of my children had the exact same due date, exactly three years apart, although Rafa was kind enough to wait to make his way into the world a week after he was due. A year later, late November through the month of December and into January add up to All! Celebrating! All! The! Time!
Check it: Thanksgiving, Oscar's birthday, Rafael's birthday, Brandon's birthday. In the span of two weeks. Then Advent. Christmas. New Year's.
Yes, it can get a little overwhelming. On the other hand, what a pleasure it is, with the darkness of winter upon us, to have so much to be glad about.
We had a double birthday party this year. Took Oscar to see "The Muppets" and arrived home to a house full of streamers, balloons, and general good cheer.
Oscar, at four, understood what all the fuss was about. Rafa's experience of his birthday was, I think, quieter.
In the design and construction of Rafa's birthday crown, I got fancy with zippers -- a detail that perhaps no one but I will appreciate (at least for a few years).
But it did make for some cuteness.
Aunt J rocked the red velvet birthday cake. With chocolate ganache frosting. Red and brown: Oscar's favorite!
A good time was had by all, I think? Er, I can hardly remember; we're well into Christmas planning by now. You know, I wanted to write something profound here about growth and milestones. Something to make a reader or two nod sagely and say to him or herself, Ah, yes. How true! But these days I almost feel like a broken record: Parenting, wow! The children, how they change and grow and stuff like that! So this is all I've got to offer today, and I hope it's enough.
It's just my little family, Mcgyvering a few traditions and cheering on our victories. A lot happens in a year. A lot of growing.
You know, you grew too, this year.
**Cheering**
I actually really wish you were here. I'd like to celebrate you.
Merry Old Year, everyone, and many happy returns.
