Holiday prep this year included a head cold for me, which took the spirit of the season a bit too literally, and just kept on giving.  Before it was all over, Abe had his first cold and Sarah and I were down for a couple of weeks.

Christmas wasn’t Abe’s first, but it may as well have been.  It felt new to Sarah and I, too, sneaking around the night before, getting all the presents and stockings ready, knowing how excited he’d be the next morning.

New Year’s took us back to Iowa for Mom’s 60th birthday extravaganza, which turned into a de facto family and friends reunion.  Abraham was thrilled to see his cousins again and Sarah and I made the most of a short visit, playing catch up with as many people as we could.

People came from far and wide for the party, which featured a chili cook-off and went for most of the day.  If I had to guess, I’d say Mom enjoyed having everyone under one roof for a few hours.

Once back in the seclusion that only this part of West Virginia can offer, we were able to relax a bit.  Sarah and Abe got some sledding in and I had some surgery.  I’m pretty sure that’s payback for something.

Thanks to everyone who helped make Abe’s, essentially, first Christmas a big one.  He’d tell you himself, but he’s sleeping.  You’ll have to settle for this big, cheesy, heartfelt smile.