McGregor Christmas.

We returned to Papa's old stomping grounds Saturday for our annual McGregor Christmas. I've been a part of this tradition since '93 when Brett and I were engaged, and it's always a highlight of our holiday season.

This year was tough, though, because Aunt Norma wasn't there. It was just strange that she wasn't sitting at the table like always, wearing her reindeer antlers and entertaining us with her stories. I know she would've loved seeing everybody there. Family meant the world to her, and the sights and sounds would've tickled her.

Even though we missed her terribly, I can't think of a better way to honor her memory at Christmas!

Becky and Dana, our hostess and host

Blake, who's Brett's second cousin once removed or something like that

Another relative: Alyssa (who has just been found
during a thrilling game of hide-and-seek)

The kitchen table

Alyssa and Novalee, cuties who were tons of fun--
and who LOVE bubble wrap

and fish!

The kids got to play a little Guitar Hero

And one big kid got to play

Kelly and Novalee

Crawford Santa on a beautifully restored tractor
(that brought back a lot of memories for Papa)

The big moment came between Crawford and Meridian: Our van now has more than 100,000 miles on it!

I drove to McGregor to fend off carsickness.
On the way home, I tried to sleep in the back.

Cool courthouse--Bosque County, maybe?