'tis the season

A few items happening in my world as well as a few thoughts floating around in my head over the last few days as I have feasted on this holiday season:

Music

• Heaven bless the music teachers (and the echoy mall accoustics) who can make an elementary school choir sing like angels; the middle school orchestra teachers who are able to make beginning string students not sound screechy; and the piano teachers who can create an atmosphere of professionalism at an amateur recital.
• I realized for the first time the other night that my old piano teacher, who is currently instructing my youngest sister, really is amazing. I was lucky to have been taught by her and only wish I'd practiced with more dedication when I was in lessons.
• The Mormon Tabernacle Choir & King's Singers Christmas concert was fantastic (which, yes, translates to mean that I'm very grateful I had a few tissues with me). What an amazing production - though I can't help but agree with my mom that, while extremely talented, those King's Singers do mark an odd but striking resemblence to one Andy Bernard. Also, who knew that Luke 2 sounds so much better when recited by Brits?

Food

• Last night was my parent's ward Christmas party, which we made an appearance at mostly just for the turkey dinner being served. We skipped out early because...
• At long last, I was in town during one of my brother, Tyler's, Gourmet Hot Chocolate nights. His talented wife, Amanda, whipped up the most delicious scones, and both were incredibly hospitable as we all raided their festive little apartment.
• My mom must think I'm a little talented in the kitchen, too, because since my arrival I've become a bit of an asset in the kitchen. The other night I was in charge of throwing together a buffet-style meal of pigs in a blanket, pasta salad, and potato chips with French onion dip. Tonight I'm making French dip sandwiches in au jus sauce and creamy mashed potatoes.

Family & Friends

• I love being surrounded by family. And though it's, I'm sure, a little overwhelming, Garrett loves the attention he's been getting from his adoring aunts, uncles, and grandparents. I don't blame hime, though, if he a little confused and/or freaked out by all the new people in his face all the time.
• At Tyler and Amanda's hot chocolate night we got to also visit with our friend, Gabriel, and his wife, Erin. Gabriel is one of the most personable, upbeat, charismatic people you will ever meet. It was good to see him again.
• My brother, Riley's, wife, Chelsea Senior, (to seperate her from my youngest sister, Chelsea Junior) works at Albertson's and called yesterday to let us know that Santa would be at the store for a few hours and would Garrett like to come see him? I don't know if Garrett wanted to, but his mama sure wanted him to. I'm proud to say that he was much braver than I was as he sat on that jolly lap.
• Just a quick reminder to all you friends and readers out there of my little blog party this Thursday evening beginning about 5:00. I hope to see as many of you who can make it there!
• Tonight Blake's sister, Kimberly, her fiance, David, and brother, Eric are all going to come back to spend more quality time with their nephew. It will be fun when the rest of Blake's family arrives in town for the wedding -- and especially when Blake arrives. He presence during all these holiday festivities is sorely missed. Only a few more days, dear!