Currently

The day after Christmas. 

A day of pajamas and low expectations. 

Except from the cat. 

The cat expects food to be deposited in his dish...even though there is already enough food there to prevent starvation.

Christmas was good.

On Christmas Eve we had our traditional meal of take-out Chinese with my mom and stepdad. Fah-rah-rah-rah. (IYKYK)

Then I went to church with our daughter's family. The church was decorated so beautifully.

We were up early on Christmas for no particular reason. Santa spoiled us both.

Under the tree for me were new pajamas, pretty new sweaters and tops to match, a lovely scarf, and the big collection of Sharpies in all colors I wanted for crafts.

Tim found lots of new work clothes, a travel case for his pistol, and a new tablet.

We went to our daughter's for dinner. Mom and John were there, too, so it was the 8 of us around the table.

(It's still tough to accept that there should be 5 more who choose not to be here.)

More gifts, good food, and games.

The big moment came when we gave the grands their big surprise from us. 

A gas powered Army jeep.

It was Pappy's big wish to give it to them. Nanny was a little more reluctant.

The grands were a bit overwhelmed by it at first, but by the end of the afternoon they were driving it all over the place.

(Only with an adult along for the ride.)

Weather... bracing for icy weather that's supposed to be bad enough they already put restrictions on the interstates and turnpike last night and are asking people to stay home. Should be starting soon.

Reading... Second Chance Bookstore

Watching... Love, the Coopers

Thinking... about our oldest granddaughter. She turns 17 today. It's been 5 years since we've seen her. She's nearly a grown woman now, but still a little girl in our memories.

Loving... having nothing in particular to do today. The day after Christmas has always been one of my favorite days. The rush is over and it's a day to stay in your jammies, enjoy your gifts and each other, and eat leftovers.

And as my blogging friend, Linda, says..."keeping it real"... the older I get the more I fight melancholy during the holidays. I miss the ones who are gone. I miss the huge, loud, crazy family Christmases of the past. New traditions are good, but not the same.

Sigh.

Giggling...