The alarm went off and I went back to sleep. Caleb texted me and I went back to sleep. This morning had come too soon. Caleb texted me again and I got up. I was still full. I walked the dogs. I couldn’t remember what time we agreed to start making cookies so I headed to Grandma’s. She had granola in the oven and stock on the stove. We were just about to start making cookies and Caleb texts me that he can Skype… for an hour.

He tells me that after taking the guy to the store for superglue and band-aids because they didn’t have butterfly stitches he gets to hear about a guy that cheated on his wife. The guys aren’t ready to get him in trouble, but I hope he doesn’t get in trouble for trying to keep a secret. Caleb wishes the guy would’ve kept it away from his roommates, and the crew, so they don’t have to lose respect for him. I tell him a few things I forgot last night and that I’m about to make cookies. He tells me to take pictures and that he’s going to bed.

I help roll the dough out. We cut cookies into bells, trees, stars, poinsettias, and gingerbread men. It’s an old family recipe made with bacon fat – I had more than one. For lunch was a banana, some kiwi, and a slice of pumpkin pie. After the cookies were done I had some chocolate and a slice of fruitcake along with a hot tottie to cure my cough. Dinner was a salad and a glass of wine. Dessert was two pieces of cheesecake with cherries on top. Great food, great conversation, and more to look forward to.

Talking with Dan was fun. He is such a lively spirit and has a great relationship with my grandma. They have been working and living together for 13 years… and still putting up with each other. I’ve had fun and learned some things in the last few days and am glad that I live closer so that I can continue to grow my relationships. I’m happy that I have so much family that I’m able to spend the holidays with, but would be ecstatic if ever we (mine and Caleb’s families – both parents) were all able to share some memories together.