I'm not sure if I should title this post or if I even did. The last few days have been a blur, to say the least. Shawn and I had to try and juggle schedules with the kids. He normally has Anna when I *don't* have Cole on Christmas.

We decided to do an early Christmas on the 23rd with just the 4 of us. To see them all honestly enjoying what they got was fantastic! It was perfect. Well, as perfect as I could muster, given my mood. I loathe PMS.

Shawn, who was worried about getting me the right gift, spoiled the heck out of me! First, it was tickets to the Seahawks game on the 24th. And not just any tickets...... these were right behind the goalpost, about 10 rows up!! Wowzer! Then came a small, ordinary envelope...... hmmm..... inside was a trip for two to Las Vegas !!! No Way!?!?! For real. He and I had both mentioned that we've never been before. Oh, what a sweetheart!

Then things start to become blurry. It was a whirlwind of packing clothes for 2 days, food for the party, camera, etc, etc......

We got to the game without a hitch. I was set! 7 layers of clothing, coats and a rain poncho later - I was a happy bear! I really thought I wouldn't do as well as I did. I don't like being cold. I don't like being wet. But those 'Hawks came onto the field and it was standing room only.... for all four quarters. They gave a good fight but needless to say took a breather at the end and BAM! Chargers 20, Seahawks 17

We rushed over to my Bro and Sis-in-laws new place in West Seattle for dinner with the fams. Chantale is Italian and let me tell you cooked up the most amazing homemade ravioli !! Yuuummmmmmmm...... Melt-in-your-mouth ricotta with homemade marinara to boot! My description doesn't even do it justice. Just take my word for it - you missed out ;)

On a more somber note: My dad pulled both my brother and I aside on Christmas Eve and gave us the news that my Grampa Norman had passed away. My Dad's stepdad, who's been part of my dad's family since my dad was 16. My last living Grandparent. Gone.

I loved my Grampa Norman. Although he wasn't blood, he was the only paternal grandfather I had known. He was funny and witty and quick. He used to walk everyday, even in the dead of winter in Montana. He had a great laugh and a strong cowboy spirit. I'm ashamed to admit that I haven't seen him in probably 10 years, but kept in touch with cards. Maybe it was for the best that I didn't see him recently. This way I have the same fond memories that will always make me smile. Not of him lying in a bed. Not of him with a walker. Just the same ol Grampa Norman I always remember...... you are loved.