Holidays

Time has flown as always and January is a time to catch up as I hunker down inside while outside winter has arrived in Chicago with some subzero temps and light snow. It is my first northern winter in 16 years and I certainly didn't miss these challenges. Fortunately there is no need to go out. In my new home, there’s food, fellowship, and exercise opportunities near. I've threatened to stay inside until spring. I did get a short reprieve from coats and socks as I accompanied my friend Ginny on her annual move to Florida for 4 months. It was strange to not go to my own place, but hearing about condo life, I didn’t regret my decision to sell. I was able to visit with friends, but had to miss many so hope to return in April. On my return, I had my first overnight visit with 13 month old Penelope while her parents celebrated dad, Brett’s, birthday by seeing Book of Mormon followed by a hotel for the night. It was their first time apart since her birth so there was lots of texting back and forth. Penelope adapted well to living here (or so it seemed to me). She makes herself at home and knows where the toys are stored and how to get off and on the elevator. She walked the corridors and met and charmed many residents. She kept up with her 3 cousins at Christmas, a kid oriented holiday with 4 under age 2 toddling around. Sister Margaret’s house was filled with 4 of her 5 kids, their spouses, and friends as well as with sister Gayle’s family of 6 from Madison, plus brother Jim and wife DeAnn and nephews Evan and Alva with his wife Andrea. Rock City had snow and ice unlike Chicago and some did venture out in it. I convinced Emily to host Thanksgiving in her new house and I would cook the turkey at my place. Most of our family in the area, in addition to Brett’s parents were able to come. My Florida dining room furniture worked well in the new location. I tried a new turkey recipe by Ida Garten that was amazing and delicious. Sister Gayle and her family spent the night and Friday we took part in the Chicago tradition of heading for State Street, that Great Street, to see the store windows in the former Marshall Field Store, as well at the decorations and huge tree in the store. Granddaughter Katherine stayed with me for the weekend and we kept busy with activities. On Sunday we celebrated Penelope’s first birthday with friends and families. Emily’s new “old” house was a “happening” place.

It was wonderful to attend many music presentations both here at the Admiral as well as other venues. I baked cookies for a caroling party as well as my traditional pumpkin bread for gifts. All in all it was one of the most enjoyable holiday seasons I’ve experienced in a while and again confirmed my decision to return to Chicago.