Christmas is definitely one of the times of the year that I always look forward to. The days surrounding Christmas are usually the few days of the year that my entire family is able to spend together. Cassie and I usually spend a few days at my parent's house and then we head back to Minnesota to spend Christmas day with Cassie's family. Adding to the occasion this year was the celebration of my nephew Ethan's first birthday. Now a child's first birthday is usually pretty special by itself but in this case it was a little extra special. Ethan was born December 24th, 2004... although his due date wasn't until the middle of March 2005. When I think back to when Ethan was born it seems so surreal to remember that little guy fighting for his life. It goes without saying that my entire family was incredibly grateful to see Ethan scrambling around like any other one-year-old. After we spoiled Ethan for his birthday we enjoyed each other's company during the usual family events: board games, hot tubbing, playing in the snow, eating until we're over-stuffed, and of course opening Christmas presents. The only exception to the fun was when my mom took a bit of a bumpy ride while tubing. We had set up a jump and everyone was taking their turn except my mom. As I recall it, I think my dad, yeah DEFINITELY my dad, talked my mom into taking a few runs down the hill. All fine and dandy until she nearly broke her fanny. She shook it off like a champ though. My sister, Lori, caught it on tape and I do have to admit that we all still chuckle a bit when we watch it. After a couple of days of nonstop action with the kids we're worn out and we escape back to Cassie's parents house. By this point Cassie and I are usually looking forward to a full day of relaxation and it's not tough to come by at the Soldan's. Of course tensions may have been a little higher this year than in year's past because of the Christmas day tilt between the Green Bay Packers, a favorite team of the Soldan family, and my beloved Chicago Bears. After a fantastic meal we open a few gifts and settled in to watch the game. With some cheering from Audra and myself, the Bears were able to pull out a 24-17 victory at Lambeau. Good news for me: a Bears victory. Bad news for me: I think this leaves Cassie's parents wondering how in the world she could have married a Bears fan. Fortunately Tim and Mel don't throw me out of the house and we enjoyed a few drinks and played a few board games. Shortly, even though it seemed like we were just leaving our house to start the Christmas festivities, Cassie and I realized another Christmas had come and gone. We headed back home thankful for a wonderful Christmas and the wonderful families that we have.
