Into a new decade

Every year has gotten busier since we had kids, with new things to experience and adjust to as a parent.  2019 certainly wasn't in sync at all (or maybe even most) times, but perhaps we are starting to let go slightly more as parents -- so I will call it progress, even if minimal and fleeting.  As hard as winter break can be in terms of events and sugar and trying to make special memories for your kids, I did enjoy some real moments of pure happiness in the midst of chaos.  I am grateful for kids who really enjoyed the holidays, and hopeful they are learning the importance of spending time together even when things get crazy.

Spencer wishes you a Merry Christmas from "Connor and Donner and Pixen," despite a disappointing realization that Frosty was a smoker ("With a corncob pipe... Wait, Frosty's smoking!?).  And Justine was thrilled to see Christmas lights in the city, especially "Daddy's Christmas lights" on our house every day when we drove home from school.

Here are some of the pictures from our holiday, and are looking forward to another great decade ahead.

Our first ever professional family photos taken in Golden Gate Park in November (more than 5.5 years in, but better late than never):

Thanksgiving in Maryland with my parents and sisters (and lots of cousins and friends -- many not pictured!):

Picking out our tree at Santa's tree farm (Justine would not go near Santa this year):

Xmas jammies and Xmas eve outfits in front of said tree:

The big morning frenzy (including crazy faces and hair), with Chris' parents here to celebrate with us:

End of the year sunsets, while enjoying spending time with friends in LA:

And a day trip to Disneyland to cap off 2019 (all around some big changes from how we spent New Years at the beginning of the decade!). Justine loved it, as evidenced in the second picture (not the first), and Spencer rode the bobsled "rollercoaster" for the first time. 

We will the 2 people who read this blog best wishes for a Happy New Year!