We gave up on going out for New Year’s when we had Max. I think we’ve been out alone once in 7 years. But as he’s gotten older, it’s gotten more fun. This year, we played charades and had a dance party, as well as played wii Mario Kart. It was a blast. At midnight, we blew our horns out the window as others in San Francisco screamed and cheered.

I was glad I wasn’t at a bar. I was glad I wouldn’t have to fight the crowds to come home. I was glad I was already in my pjs. I was glad to be ringing in the new year with the boys I love best.

Happy New Year, family style, y’all.

I’m sad that Christmas is over. Not sure why that’s the case this year. I think it’s that I realize that our years of holiday magic are limited. Every year that Max feels the magic brings us closer to the end of that era.

This year Santa was especially good to us. And now we are in San Francisco, which makes the holiday feel even longer. But I will be sad when we head home and I have to pack away the ornaments on our dead Christmas tree.

There’s nothing like watching the magic of Christmas through the eyes of your child. Only too soon he’ll be a teen we have to wake up at noon to begrudgingly come down to open his presents. I can wait. Really I can.

photo by stock.xchng user Ewucha. Royalty free.

Years ago, when the Hub and I were studying in Belgium, we made friends with a woman from Spain. Over the years, we’ve written letters and emails. Every Christmas, we send each other a special holiday box.

We fill the box with holiday treats and cultural tidbits from our respective countries. She sends almond-flavored candy; I send marshmallows (which she loves, by the way; apparently they don’t make them in Spain).

Every year, we both thrill to see what’s in store. I won’t give away what I sent her this year, as she likely is reading this post (Hi!). I love shopping, trying to see the Christmas-packed stores from the perspective of someone from another country. Is reindeer-poop candy funny if you’re not American?

Through this tradition, we’ve learned about one another’s cultures. Last year, we were lucky enough to go to Spain and hang out with our dear friend. In Spain, Christmas isn’t as big a deal as El Dia de los Tres Reyes. I still think back to the amazing parade we attended as well as the arrival of the three wise men by boat.

Having a pen pal as an adult is rare. Fortunately, email and Facebook make it easier.  I love that Max sees our tradition and looks forward to her box with me!