Well, not really. But Kyle and I didn't send out cards this year.
So, to sum up...
Kyle and I did our presents on Christmas Eve and then spent the next day at his parents. It was quiet and lovely. That would be the last of that for a week.
On the 26th, I left for Chicago with my Aunt. We drove, which wasn't bad. I prefer to drive. We headed back home on Friday the 2nd and arrived back in Austin on Saturday.
Long version?
I loved Chicago. There were street names that sparked vague memories. Soldier Field looks confused with its old dignified columns competing against the new, round, glass and steel. Really, there was nothing else to do with it that would have pleased anyone from Chicago. The Art Institute had the photography of Charles Dodgson (aka Lewis Carroll) on display. The Museum of Science and Industry had the Christmas trees from around the world display. I soaked up everything I could and left wanting more. Just like Chinese food.
I enjoyed seeing most of my relatives. Well, all but one. My Aunt's oldest son is a complete ass. His name is Mike (Michael) and he reaffirmed my idea that there isn't a Michael in the world I can get along with. After restraining myself like a good girl all day at the Art Institute, I finally lost it after dinner that night. He just seemed to completely blow out of proportion something my Aunt said. While I understand there may be issues there that I'm not aware of, that doesn't excuse his behavior. I don't like the way he yelled at her and his wife, red in the face, shaking his finger. I got up and told him the conversation was over and that he couldn't talk to people like that and left. Mild, for me, I know. But I had already figured out that the best way to punish some one like him is to deprive him of his audience. It worked. Man, was he pissed. Heh.
All of the other relatives were so wonderful and welcoming. My Aunt Tina and her family were fun to be with even though Tina wasn't feeling well. Her kids are smart, which makes them a bit of a handful. But if you keep them busy, they behave quite well. Eric, Michael's brother, just had a new baby with his girlfriend and they were amazingly hospitable for two people low on sleep. Eric has a serious talent for drawing floor plans and works in construction. He wants to be a contractor, but I wish he'd check out architectural school. He's my age and we've always gotten along swimmingly.
It was amusing to see that no one was surprised by the fact that I haven't spoken to my mother in about four years. I think most of the reason I haven't seen any of these people in years is due to her horrid personality.
So, I'm glad I went. I'd go back, but I would want Kyle with me and more time to explore the city and the museums.
What have you guys been up to? Cha'Sae, is Christmas different for you now? I can't remember hardly anything about your church. Hows about a description?
Deb? Did you get to spoil the kids? What about your parents, did they spoil 'em, too?
Oh, and Happy New Year!
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