Christmas Part 2

The day after we got back from Alabama I flew to DC to see my aunt and uncle and mom and sister. I was only there for a couple days, but it was really great to see them all and spend at least a little time together. I was also much better about taking family photos so I'll share some of the better ones.

Here is Caroline in a tunnel between the Smithsonians.


Caroline at the Smithsonian National Gallery of Art


Caroline and Me


Me


Caroline and Mom


Caroline and Mom again


Mom


Aunt Linda


Aunt Linda and Uncle Bob


Aunt Linda and Me

Christmas 2008 Part 1

I realize it is now fully into the new year, but I was lazy and enjoying my break so I'm just now getting around to posting pictures of our Christmas escapades. Dan and I went to visit his family in Alabama for a week and had a great time catching up with everyone and spending time with family. I didn't take as many pictures as I should have but I'll share what I did manage to snap.

First, though, I have to share the horror/wonder that is the Bass Pro Shop. They are truly the Redneck Wonderland that I always knew must exist somewhere but couldn't find. The vastness of the store is amazing. Fishing poles, camping equipment, guns, deer stands, and novelty items span two stories. There is even a restaurant and an arcade with animatronic targets. It truly has everything the Alabama man (or woman) could ever want. Pink hunting rifles for the ladies? Check. Camo armchairs? Check. Thousands of dead stuffed animals silently juding you as you pick out hunting gear? Check.

Here is a shot of the centerpiece of the store. I've heard that each Bass Pro Shop decorates according to the region. Apparently Alabama has waterfalls...?


The store is HUGE


You're buying that brand?



Anyway, now that I've got that out of my system here is a picture of my mother-in-law Carolyn's tiny dog dressed in her holiday outfit. Can you say awwww?



It was actually hard to get a good picture because she was trembling the entire time. Apparently having a stranger dress you up and take your picture on a bed is a scary thing.Who knew.

Later the family came over to open presents and spend quality time. Here are some shots of the nieces enjoying the aftermath of present opening.

Laura Jane (they got remote control cars)


Campbell


I didn't get a good picture of our nephew Thomas, unfortunately. Next time I'll have to sit everyone down for a real photo. But these will have to do for now. We really did have a great time and I wish everyone didn't live so far away.