Tuesday is the day to share a “Slice of Life” with Two Writing Teachers. Check out the writers, readers and teachers here. Thanks to Stacey, Anna, Beth, Tara, Dana and Betsy for creating a place for us to work collaboratively.

After a day on the road yesterday traveling home, it’s easy for me to envision this winter break ending soon.  What an amazing time with friends and family!  And I only took pictures at the beginning and the end so my reporting is going to be random!

Traveling by car:  the price of gas was amazing!

Friday, December 19th at the New London, Iowa Casey’s the price of a gallon of gas was $1.99.  This was en route to the Moline airport to pick up the kids when they flew in.

On Monday, December 29th at Columbia, MO, the price of a gallon of gas was $1.89. This was on the return to Iowa signaling the last turn north to home.

Of course there were other tank fill ups during our travels but any and all that were under $2.00 per gallon were particularly noted.

Surprises were surprises!

On our path to new memories and traditions, we held a surprise baby shower for my daughter-in-law who believed that the surprise was that she and my son were in Iowa for the family Christmas. (The family did not know that she was accompanied by her husband so there was a surprise for everyone!) Even better, the projected overseas deployment is canceled for now so there was much to celebrate! Guests brought favorite books to share so the book shelf in the baby’s room will be filling up and the “onesie-decorating” contest was fun for all.  Proud of the many artists in the family. And special thanks to my sisters for organizing and planning the shower!

Good food!

The Ruth family Christmas (my mom’s brothers and sisters and offspring) was well attended.  We had the “family that came the farthest” – sister from Florida with her boys as well as five out of six children present for a high family attendance.  My son noted that he could tell he was in Iowa as there were five different corn dishes!

And then in Kentucky, we had great meals with many contributions from family members attending!  Debbie’s turkey was marvelous (so was her potato soup- different meal!)! John’s hash brown casserole – amazing! Aunt Lisa’s pies! Julie’s peanut butter balls and cake-batter bark were automatic hits! So many choices  . . . all great cooks!

Great Family Time!

We had a total of six different Christmas congregations between Iowa and Kentucky.  These involved parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many more! Thanks to all family members for the great conversations, gifts and celebrations together!  Making the special effort to spend time together for the holidays and for family . . . Heaven!

What new memories/traditions did you begin/celebrate?