Christmas 2011

For the first time, Erik and I did a completely joint Christmas. It was a bit of a whirlwind, but we both agreed that it was a success. Here was our three day schedule, December 24-26.

Christmas Eve (December 24)

Church at Mt. Olivet in Minneapolis

My Christmas Eve gathering in Edina

Erik's Christmas Eve gathering in Vasa

Drive back to Minneapolis

Christmas Day (December 25)

Wake up to trumpet at my parent's house

Open presents with my immediate family

Brunch

Dinner with my extended family

Drive to White Bear Lake

December 26

Britta and I went to Banana Republic hoping for amazing deals...was disappointed

Torgerson Christmas gathering

Back to St. Paul at 10:00pm

It was definitely different, and on the morning of the 24th I started to feel a bit sad about having to change up some of my traditions. But, that sadness quickly faded as we began the events. In the end, it was exciting to start new traditions and I'm really glad we got to see so many people. It was a great Christmas.

Hope you all had a joyous season!

As we enter a new year, remember these words I heard in the movie, The Help, a few nights ago. 

Aibileen Clark: "You is kind. You is smart. You is important." 

Adopt A Family Holiday Party

Last night I went to a lovely holiday party, hosted by Amanda and Davey. Amanda went through Hennepin County Social Services and found a family for us to adopt for the holiday season. Our friends bought Christmas presents for a single mom and her two daughters. It was a wonderful time, with great potluck food. The best part was seeing the result of us coming together to provide Christmas for this family in need.

The afternoon started with some fun in the kitchen with Erik, Dan, Katie and Jared. We prepped for our contributions to the holiday potluck. Homemade pizza with Dan as the master chief, and Jared and Katie as the apprentices. I put together a green salad and Erik wowed everyone with his Suddenly Salad, and extra vegetable additions.

Lots of generous friends purchased gifts to help provide for the family's Christmas.

 

 Thanks for a wonderful holiday party, Amanda and Davey! As I said last night, see you in 12 months.