Christmas...delayed due to weather

There's a serious storm in the pacific northwest and while I can't really see any evidence of that here in Sacramento, we have felt it in the impact on our Christmas.

Merry Christmas! It's almost 10:30 on Christmas morning and we are...hanging out. We just had a lovely breakfast and Drew and I are sitting on the sofa, watching a movie while Rich clears the dishes from breakfast.

Starting early this morning, we have been getting updates from Oregon, where Rich's parents were planning on heading out to see us. Yesterday would have been an ideal day - it was quite clear in the morning and the roads were clear. Last night and this morning, it has been snowing. There are white out conditions over the pass and chains are required. They planned to bring the truck with four wheel drive, but it is slow. So we got an update about an hour later that they were not coming, but that they'd keep looking at the weather to see if they were going to try later.

Meanwhile, my parents called to let us know that it was pouring rain and that they were going to wait it out a little bit. Then they called after nine to let us know that they weren't feeling well and that they were a little grumpy. Sigh. And my brother decided not to come.

The Christmas spirit has lost its sparkle.

So, I have a resolution. Next year. We are doing our thing. And anyone who wants to come can come, but we're doing our thing. We love our families, but this day has kind of...disintegrated around us due to the weather and delays and we still haven't opened presents. I feel bad for Drew. And our mellow fun morning has been a bit disappointing. And Drew's tummy is hurting, which isn't fun either.

It's still going to be a great day. I made some yummy stuff. The braised short ribs has been in progress for three days. We're going to have braised short ribs, mashed potatoes, and then a bunch of veggies - broiled lemony asparagus, sauteed swiss chard, glazed carrots, and then steamed lemon puddings and chocolate cream pie for dessert.

Somehow, this year, Christmas has been lackluster. Whether it's the economy or the loss of a weekend between Christmas & Thanksgiving, or the weather, who knows? It hasn't really felt all that Christmasy. Maybe I'll get into the New Year's spirit?