Merry Christmas! Hope everyone had a relaxing holiday, and was able to spend quality time with family and friends. The weekend before Christmas, after her 4th/last free class, I signed Calie up for 2 more months of dance. Then I went to check out the nearby 24 Hour Fitness using my own free pass. While the facilities were nice and the childcare option was incredible (2 hours of fun for $4?!), the weekend classes were over crowded. I had to share weights in the Body Pump class and the next day, the cycling class was filled before I got there. It made me very grateful to have a gym at my work place –  newly remodeled, to be opened mid-January! Saturday evening, the kids’ favorite babysitter came over, and James and I went to the annual Baco Christmas party. We always enjoy the potluck, traditional carols, and infamous white elephant gift exchange. Thank you Joe and Sara for hosting again!

Sunday, James and I took the kids to the Discovery Museum. Their ‘Bones’ exhibit ends in a few weeks, and we wanted to catch it before they moved to the next theme. Also, since we are members (had to buy an annual family pass for Zach’s birthday party this year), we still had free admission. Calie made a sachet and attended a porcupine talk, while Zachary was mostly occupied with puzzles.

In the evening, we went to Sandy’s 1st annual Cooking Challenge party. The concept is best described as a potluck, where people voted for their favorite dish. Winner received a traveling trophy and a $50 Massage Envy gift card. Congratulations Annie! Her marmalade glazed chicken wings were delicious. Of course, so was Karen’s berry cheesecake cups, Dana’s chocolate dessert, and Sam’s boeuf bourguignon … she had tough competition!

Monday evening, one of our neighbors set up a sleigh ride gathering. They offered popcorn from an old-fashioned popcorn maker, and also set up a fire pit, where kids could roast marshmallows and make smores. Neighbors served up hot chocolate, wassail, and a table full of desserts. They even had a craft table in their garage … kids’ ornaments have totally taken over our Christmas tree. Calie liked the sleigh ride so much, we had to go twice. We live in a great neighborhood - as usual, it’s the people that make the difference! James put the kids to bed, and I joined Karen, Sam, and John for a late dinner at Thai Paradise followed by a later showing of the movie Black Swan. A great (but disturbing) movie – I was thoroughly impressed by Natalie Portman.

Tuesday, it was my turn to put the kids to bed while James and a few other guys took Sam out for dinner at Cafeteria 15L and the IMAX version of Tron. Happy Birthday Sam! (Okay, so I took the kids to Pinkberry – we were out anyway for dance class.)

Wednesday, Karen, John, James, and I took Sam to Fats for a birthday lunch (multi-day celebration). We used buy-1-get-1-free discount cards that we got through work, making our entrees (i.e. honey walnut prawns, wasabi filet mignon) very reasonably priced. Since it was a light week, we extended our lunch with a stop at Pinkberry. Best frozen yogurt place ever – I highly recommend the original tart with raspberries and mochi.

I worked half days all last week since it was slower at work with no meetings. I picked up the kids early every day, which allowed us more time to hang out at home with no plans. We did workbooks, art, made cookies, watched holiday specials on TV, and just played.

Friday was Christmas eve. That morning, James took the kids to play at Bill’s parent’s home. Bill and his family were visiting from New York, and they wanted to get our children together to run around. At the same time, I took a 4+ mile trail walk with Dana followed by lunch at Mikuni’s. We used to exchange Christmas gifts every year, but we’ve since decided (in our old age?) that spending time together was a better way to celebrate the holidays. When we got home, James’ parents were already in our house – good thing they have our spare keys! As always, the kids enjoyed playing with their grandparents; they spent most of this extended weekend playing board games, being read to, and building with Legos.

Christmas morning was great this year. In the past, opening gifts was trying. Zachary never really cared for toys, and we don’t keep up with the latest trends either. We’d have to prod him to open gifts, and it would often take all day, sometimes longer. I remember one year, 8 or so adults, crowding around Zachary (only kid), and he was just so uninterested in the pile of presents. This year, Zachary was actually excited about seeing all the gifts under the tree and opened them in one sitting with only a breakfast intermission. Calie, having inherited my more materialistic gene, loved presents from the get-go (at 2-years-old).

I wish I captured the look on her face with my new camera when she saw the pink bike under the tree. (On the other hand, maybe it’s better I experienced it fully instead of behind camera lens.) She knew immediately that it was hers. She wanted to ride her trike while holding her new soccer ball. She tore open her coloring books, scribbled on a few pages, put on her tap shoes, had us read all her new books to her, and took photos using Zachary’s new kiddie camera. That’s my girl! She makes shopping for a pleasure.  James and I kept gift giving minimal since we don’t really need anything. I got him 2 spatulas and he bought me a pair of knit boots from my Amazon wish list.

For Christmas dinner, James’ made pork/chicken and cheese tamales. I made tamales once when I was on bonding leave with Zachary … and decided it was too much work. Despite my warning, the fear of eating of turkey or ham weeks on end won over, and James took ownership of our holiday dinner. I’m glad because it tasted great, and I didn’t have to cook!

(Trying some modes on my new camera – I like the close ups!)

Sunday was supposed to be raining, but it was a sunny day instead. I went for a jog and even got a slight tan (Hmm. I must have been out for while … how slow do I run?!). James set up the volleyball net in the backyard, and the kids played outside. For dinner, we went to Mikuni’s. Happiness is eating sushi twice in one week. I’m sure unhappiness will be stepping on the scale tomorrow morning. That said, I’m working half days again next week – so no excuses for not exercising!

Early December, I took my direct team to ‘Brew It Up’ to make vanilla oatmeal stout. I had never made beer before, and there were a lot more steps than I expected.  Between measuring and stirring, we had $3 happy hour appetizers and drinks. Given the stressful weeks post driver release, it was great to get out of the office. Of course, a few of us (myself included) had smart phones, and we kept them dialed into work email just in case there was an escalation.

The next 2 days I had all day meetings. I’m starting to get used to standing up and presenting to big groups! After the first day, my manager took his staff and a few other extended team members to Q’Bole for dinner. I specifically sat next to people who flew in from outside the country (I.e. India, Poland, Mexico) since it was a somewhat rare opportunity to get face time with them. Imagine my embarrassment when I introduce myself, and someone responds with, “I know you, and actually you know me too. We talked last time I was down here, and we have exchanged numerous emails as well.” Hahaha. I am a walking social faux pas.  After the 2nd day of meetings, I was mentally exhausted  – and it was quite ironic that I had to present 6 quarter plans when I don’t even know what I’m doing Christmas weekend!

 
Since James was in San Francisco with his parents (his dad had surgery), I kept the weekend pretty low key. It was cold and drizzly Friday evening, so I opted out of the city tree-lighting event and had Dana and Dave over for dinner instead. As it was a work day, I kept dinner easy … grilled butter garlic mahi mahi, salad, and pesto pasta. After they left, the more lenient parent (me) let the kids stay up and watch Polar Express on TV. James unexpectedly came home that night since his dad’s surgery went well – Busted!   Saturday, I took Calie to dance class. She can’t put steps together yet like some of the older girls, but she does well in the first half when they go over and repeat the moves. The best part is that she is so happy and proud of herself.

That evening, we helped host our annual neighborhood progressive dinner. I totally over ate (typical!) and am disappointed to report that I have gained 2 lbs since the start of the holiday season.

Sunday, I took this kids to their swim lessons, followed by a playdate at Dylan’s house. We had planned to go ice skating afterwards, but we were rained out.

Tuesday, I hosted my annual team holiday party at my home. I’ve missed two years in a row due to maternity leave (2008) and a feverish baby (2009.)  I roasted a turkey (yes, while I was at work) and asked the other manager to bring in a ham. Right before I left to make sure my house was not burning down, I received news that funding for a new program was approved – hooray! I now have 3 more positions to fill (so 4 in total) … and fortunately also a part time administrative assistant to help me. With that good news, the team enjoyed a potluck dinner at my home, complete with turkey, ham, garlic mashed potatoes, scalloped potatoes, gourmet mac/cheese, a vegetable platter, *5* pies, and lots of festive beverages including homemade limoncello. It was great to meet/catch up with the spouses, and the kids kept themselves entertained with the Wii.

 
On Thursday, Zachary’s school hosted a ‘Festival of Lights’ celebration, where tables were set up, representing different countries and how they celebrate the holidays. The Diwali table had the best food.  There was also a Santa, but since James took Calie home already, I only got a photo with Zachary.

Friday was Zach’s first basketball practice. He has never played (aside from throwing a ball at recess), but since he has a good coach and 2 assistant coaches, I think he’ll learn a lot his first season. Go Bruins! After practice, I headed out to catch a movie (Burlesque) with my girlfriends Sandy, Karen, and Rachel.  I enjoyed it quite a bit … the dancing and singing more than made up for the bad acting. And quite frankly, on a Friday night, I just want a light hearted movie where I don’t have to think too hard!

(Calie’s big girl bedroom set is here! We are officially a crib-free family … whoo-hoo! )

Saturday, Calie went to her pre-ballet class, and then we headed to Intel for their annual family holiday event. Zachary wrote a letter to Santa asking for “real” sports equipment. I guess he has outgrown the plastic Little Tykes toys! The kids also made ornaments using sticker foam. And of course … met with Santa. The event was not nearly as crowded compared to years past, and the lines moved quickly. Calie was afraid of Santa (clung to James for dear life), so we ended up with a photo of just Zachary and then a family photo.

Afterwards, we went to BJs for lunch with Bhavana’s family. I had to get the ahi appetizer … yum! In the late afternoon, Zachary went to Shaan’s 7th birthday party at the local sports complex. The kids played indoor soccer and basketball. Happy 7th Birthday Shaan!

Sunday, the kids had their swim lessons. I’m pretty happy with Zachary progress (especially given that we only go once a week), but Calie is still not swimming on her own. If anything, for water safety, I’d like to see more progress from her before next summer. After class, we headed to Alex and Nicole’s pajama party smelling like chlorine. We had turkey sandwiches for lunch, decorated cookies, and socialized in comfy attire. Thanks to Melissa and Sam for hosting this annual tradition!

This week was the last full week of work before the holidays, so there were lots of celebrations. Tuesday, my team wrote/signed/decorated holiday cards for the local nursing home during our lunch break. On Wednesday, we took the afternoon off and bottled the beer we made 2 weeks ago. We bottled over 100 bottles, and split them amongst the team so that everyone who wanted to, could take home a 12-pack. My manager and another staff manager decided to join us for appetizers and drinks. I had to leave at 5pm to make it back home and then back out again with the family to see the Radio City Holiday Spectacular.

I was impressed by the precision of the moves, but the seats we won from work were not very good and the kids got restless halfway through. I may be a bit spoiled since I tend to get ‘best available’ when I buy show tickets myself. I’ve found the experience to be worth the price premium, especially since I don’t go often. Friday, the Graphics Validation department had our annual holiday potluck and gift exchange. I ended up with a Charlie Brown Christmas DVD for the kids and a $10 iTunes giftcard – not bad!

In the evening, we went to Calie’s preschool holiday party, where the kids made numerous ornaments and reindeer food (a mess of oatmeal and glitter). I steered the them away from the cookie decorating and gingerbread house making rooms since we came straight from work and no one had dinner yet. The preschool also hired a Santa, and we *finally* got a picture of both kids!

And that brings us to today … Friday … so glad for the upcoming days off, but unfortunately it’s supposed to be rainy all week. At least we’re not going to Tahoe this year. We had thought about it, but decided last minute that we would wait and only hit the roads under good conditions. So let’s see what we end up doing on our least planned holiday break ever!

(Hm. What’s the probability of both kids wearing the same outfit for the Christmas and Thanksgiving school event? See photos of post below… )

The week before Thanksgiving, both kids had ‘mini-feast’ celebrations at their school. In Zach’s class, they sang songs and had a potluck lunch. The next day, in Calie’s class, they had a Thanksgiving lunch catered by their cafeteria. I was glad I worked so close and was able to attend both!

That Sunday, James and Zach went the Sacramento Kings vs New Jersey Nets basketball game. James was rewarded the tickets (box seats) from work for his contributions on our latest chipset. I was concerned Zachary might lose interest, but he had a great time! It helped that it was a very exciting/close game and the Kings won. At the end of the game, Zach asked,”So what other sports are there in the world?” Saturday, I took Calie to a trial pre-ballet class. She was the only 2 year old, but she did great. She wasn’t able to follow as well as the older girls, but she listened and tried her best. I don’t think I would have appreciated her social maturity as much had I not experienced her brother, who licked the mirrors at dance class a few years ago.

Next up on the agenda – an afternoon/evening of celebration with my friends. In honor of Sandy and Melissa’s birthday, Karen and I joined them at Arden Hills Spa. I indulged in an 80 minute massage and also hung out in the complimentary jacuzzi and steam room. After our spa treatments, Sandy, Melissa, and I had a leisurely dinner at Mulvaney’s B&L in midtown. Happy birthday to Melissa and Sandy!

Sunday, Zachary’s soccer team had their end of year party at SkyHigh. The boys had a great time jumping, followed by a pizza lunch and handing out of ‘participation’ trophies. It’s a great group of kids (and parents), and I hope they all decide to stay on the same team next season. They must have thought I did a decent job as team parent too, because I received a Thank You card with a $50 gift card to BJ’s restaurant.

In the evening, we went to Dana’s house for a playdate followed by dinner. The kids had a great time playing, and the salad, potato soup (from a blender!), and grilled salmon was very delicious. Thank you Dana!

I took Monday off to spend some extra time with the kids since it’s a nonacademic week for them. Unexpectedly, both kids said they wanted to go to school. Then Zach tried to negotiate half a day at home and half a day at school. We played at home for awhile and then went to SkyHigh for ‘Munchkin Monday’, which meant $5 for 2 hours of jumping. To maintain my status as “Parent of the Year”, we had pizza, nachos, and Dipping Dots for lunch!

After SkyHigh, I gave Zach the option of going to school. He said,”Well, since you took the day off and that’s rare, it’s a special day for you … so I’ll stay home.” Gee… thanks, Zach. In the evening, Zachary invited a few classmates (Alex, Billy, Rohan, and Dylan) and their parents over for a Wii playdate. Since it was rainy/cold and I had the day off, I made my light version of Zuppa Toscana soup. I also picked up a loaf of jalapeno cheese bread for appetizer and white chocolate cinnamon bread for dessert – I love fresh bread with real butter. I am pleased to say that all the food was eaten. Success!

Tuesday, I had planned to take the day off, but there was an escalation at work I needed to take care of. James also had to manage a roof repair on our rental home. The day wasn’t lost though – we got what we needed done by afternoon, had a late lunch at BJs (thanks soccer team!), and did some shopping before picking up the kids. Wednesday, James’ parents came … of course the kids were very happy about that!

Thanksgiving morning, James, Zachary, and I went on a 5k run while James’ parents watched Calie at home. I knew I could run a 5k in slightly over half an hour, but I did not expect Zachary to be able to finish it. Therefore, the plan was for James to stay back with Zachary so that he would not get lost in the crowd. On the way to the race, I reminded Zachary he needed to pace himself. After about half a mile of pacing with me, I was done with Zach pestering me about running faster. I decided that if he wanted to learn a lesson about over exertion and cramping, then he could go ahead. James sped up to run at a faster pace and pretty soon, I couldn’t see them. At the 1 mile water stop, there was a big crowd, and I assumed Zachary and James were in the midst of it, probably needing to walk the rest of the way. Imagine my shock when I crossed the finish line at 32 minutes 44 seconds … and saw Zachary and James waiting (and eating Cheetos – is James trying to compete for my ‘Parent of the Year’ award?!). Zach’s official time was 29 minutes and 26 seconds. He ran the entire way, with only a few stops to wait for James. He was the fastest kid under 7-years-old, and there almost 4000 people running/walking the race. According to Zachary (who was way too smug), he could have run faster if he didn’t have to keep pace with his parents. While I was proud of him for performing so well, it was also a bit demoralizing for me. Is this when the new generation starts outperforming the previous? So early? I’m only 36-years-old … aside from video games, I should still be better at everything, right? Next goal for me …take a minute off my mile.

We had a traditional Thanksgiving dinner with turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes etc. After dinner, everyone went to sleep so I headed to the outlets for early Black Friday shopping. The deals weren’t that great, but it’s the one time during the year where store are open after the kids are in bed. I shopped until past 2am!

Saturday, James’ parents left and my sisters came to visit. We went to SkyHigh (again!), followed by a sushi dinner at Mikunis. After dinner, James took the kids home while my sisters and I hit Nordstroms Rack. We all had Groupons (paid $25 for a $50 gift card) and I ended up with a pair of black skinny jeans (Joes, size 27 … mismarked because I am not a 27) and a black cardigan for just $15 over my gift card – Score!

Sunday, the kids had swim lessons. During the day, we played board games, read books, and set up our Christmas tree – this year, both kids could hang up ornaments. In the evening, we headed to the Rancho Cordova tree lighting. We went on a small train ride, the kids made some ornament crafts, and we had some of Tabitha’s warm cider (yummy!), but it was too cold to stay for the tree lighting. We left after an hour, and ended up going to La Favorita for dinner instead … very good Mexican food!

And so that concluded our Thanksgiving week … family, food, and SkyHigh, I mean, fun. Back to work on Monday (actually Sunday evening, but we won’t talk about that.)