Nell & Milei

The 2nd annual 'Christmas at Auntie KK's' was held this year, and as usual - it was loads of fun! One of my dearest friends in the world, Nell Kido - and her 2 1/2 year old daughter Milei (my 'niece') are two of my most favorite people in the world. Last year, they came for a visit just before Christmas, and we all had so much fun we decided to try to make it happen every year. So far, so good!

 First, we had noodles. Milei had the opportunity to show off her MAD chopsticks skill. (!!)

Then, chopstick wars - naturally. 

We opened a few presents.

And had storytime. Mikayla was wildly popular, as usual. ;o) 

The next day, we started off with a little naked ukulele, green fancy shoe time! 

Then, off to Ingrid's German Shop!

Back home for some saxophone practice...

While we worked on the best mushroom barley soup on the planet! It was truly stellar.

What a wonderful visit! I can't wait until next year!

'The Ever After', starring Mikayla

Our own little 'Snow White'...

No performance would be complete without the signing of autographs!

And, our friends came, too!!

...and then it hits the fan.

The drive to work this morning was a little slippery, so we went the long way through Veazie to get to Orono. It was nice drive along the river, watching the snow fall and collect on the tree branches. I took a moment to enjoy the slower ride, away from the craziness of the interstate. A nice start to my day, and my new, more thoughtful and reflective philosophy on life. Everything in perspective from now on.

I have lots to be thankful for today. Nell & Milei will arrive tomorrow night for a two-day visit! (how CUTE is she?!) She's growing up so fast. I hope coming to Auntie KK's will become a yearly tradition. Two years and counting, now! Lots of fun things planned - ornament making, baking, pictures by the x-mas tree, and probably some singing and dancing. If this snow sticks, maybe we can build a snowperson, too!

This weekend, my own family will celebrate Christmas. Then - next week two of my dear friends from high school are coming to visit. It's been years since we've had the opportunity to have a good conversation, so it's a long time coming. I'm so excited to see you both, Caitlin & Megan! It reminds me of all the good times we had in high school. (I even dug out my "Strength of Your Spirit" tshirt from one-acts, Meg!) Oh, and - I have YEARBOOKS!

I wonder if we'll get more snow soon?