O Christmas Tree.

We were very successful tree hunters this year.  Now our generous tree ("That would have cost us over $100 bucks in NYC!") stands in the living room, covered in hand-me down ornaments from Mr. Tea's family and my own, our own small collection, and cocktail umbrellas.  (I'm telling you, a few cocktail umbrellas in front of white lights really make a party.)  And Booboo loves it all.  The first thing she says in the morning:  "Nana, nana!" which translates as:  "We've got to go downstairs right now and look at the lights on the tree!"

And Mr. Tea gave me a fabulous new camera as an early present for Christmas, so I can do more than take iphone photos.  Hooray.  I've got a few nice shots, but want to brush up on the instruction booklet, (yes, I'm one of those dorks that does actually read instruction booklets!) so I know a little better what I'm doing.

I'm having so much more fun this Christmas than last!  Firstly, because last year we had a 2 month old and still weren't out of that new parent haze yet.  And Booboo just loves everything, and it's easy to catch her enthusiasm.  We've started a winter tradition of lighting candles for her dinner, and she is so excited each and every time they are lit, to the point of reminding me, "nana, nana!" if I've forgotten.  (We're still not exactly sure how "nana" is light, but it also goes for Grandma Lala, (also beginning w/ L) so at least she's consistent!  

This time of year makes me think about folks who are far away, and especially lately those on the west coast, which are dealing with such trippy weather lately.  I hope all of you get through this time safely.  Remember, steer INTO the skid.  Mr. Tea adds that judicious use of the e-brake can also be a lifesaver.