What a wonderful Christmas it’s been! In the gifts department, I was completely spoiled on all fronts. A few of my favorite things from under the tree:

There were a few other wonderful gifts that I received that did not fit on the list above because, try as I might, I couldn’t find photos. My sister-in-law got me a beautiful jacket that I am so excited to wear for work. And my Mom, knowing my love of both Elvis and Bernie Sanders, sent an awesome t-shirt that parodies this photo of Elvis meeting Nixon. It’s as amazing as you’re imagining. And lastly, but certainly not least, my thoughtful husband took me to a see Home Alone at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra a few weeks before the holiday, which was one of the coolest Christmas things I’ve ever done! My inner 90’s child squealed with glee the whole way through. If you’re a Chicagoan, I couldn’t recommend this experience enough.

As should always be the case, the best parts of Christmas had nothing to do with what was under the tree, but rather with the family we got to spend time with. Since he had to work for the holiday, we had a lovely pre-holiday dinner with my brother, his girlfriend and a mutual friend. Lots of laughs ensued and he gave us these awesome ugly sweaters, which we wore proudly Christmas morning.

Then we had a wonderful Christmas Eve with extended family, sharing delicious food with sappy movies playing in the background. My sister-in-law brought Catchphrase to play and we all stumbled through a few rounds (some of us better than others). Then Christmas morning was with just the immediate family – the five of us – for breakfast and gifts and even more movies.

Overall, it’s been a lovely, family (and food) filled weekend. Staying in Chicago this time of year is always bittersweet. On the one hand, it’s nice to stay put and not have to deal with the craziness of holiday travel. On the other hand, I miss my family dearly, and I hated missing my nephew’s first Christmas. Thankfully, where in-laws are concerned I really lucked out, as I love mine to death. And while it makes being far from my own family a bit more bearable, that tinge of sadness is there nonetheless…

How about you? How did you enjoy your holiday weekend?