Holidaying in Michigan - The Return

During the holiday season we trek back and forth to Michigan to spend time with all of Kristen's family. We attempt to make as many family functions as possible, but the past few years we've missed the Boggio family get together (Kristen's Mom's family). This year Ryan was able to wrangle them all together in Ann Arbor for a Christmas party. We departed early Friday after Gil's morning feeding (it always sounds like I'm describing how you feed livestock. "Hey Vern, the cows get their mornin' feed, yet?"). Anyway...this is the third time we've gone to Ann Arbor, but are still batting 1000 for snow storms during our travel.

I tip my hat to the meteorologist. He said snow would start at 8am. Well, come 8am the snow started. So, I thought we'd be ahead of the weather. Yeah, right. I-94 was littered with wrecked cars (some unfortunately, looked to be serious) most of the trip. Of course, as we entered Ann Arbor city limits, we finally got in front of the storm.

Background. Taya is one of three sisters. When they are all together, the decibel pitch of their conversations and laughter can be deafening to the uninitiated. Of course, I mean this affectionately! I warned Gil, once we entered the house to be prepared for the shriek of the Boggio women. However, no warning can prepare oneself for that experience! Still emerging from his car seat slumber, his eyes shot open wide as he looked up to see all these new faces doting over him. I quickly ushered Gil upstairs before grabbing hands could claim him and prepared the little man for the evening.

As for the evening, it was fantastic. Lots of food, beverage, and good conversation. Michigan State was playing their bowl game so many were attuned to the television. In lieu of the traditional chinese gift exchange, Ryan made it a requirement that everybody instead brought a book that was hopefully a favorite. Still enforcing the rules of the game, we opened and stole books from one another. I ended up with a great book on grilling and Kristen got some chicky, feel-good story of Camelot told by four chicks. Like King Arthur was a touchy-feely guy! If he wasn't killing and pillaging, I'm sure he was drinking with his buddies at the 'Round' betting on joust matches!

On Saturday, we finally got to see the farmhouse Ryan and Shannon purchased. They have big plans for the house (and a lot of work to do!), but I'm sure it will turn out fabulous. We walked the 40 acres (not all of it!) and enjoyed some nice, very un-city fresh air.

Our return trip home was much quicker and easier and of course, Gil slept the entire ride home. Here's a picture of what he looks like all the time in his car seat. And no, I wasn't driving as I snapped the photo!