I feel as though I’m in the calm before the true holiday storm. It’s been a quiet week, with John enduring Oregon rain on a business trip while Cholula and I putter around the house. I’ve been slowly decorating for Christmas, singing along to Gene Autry and Bing Crosby, checking my gift lists and, of course, thinking non-stop about Baby Howe. As I type, there seems to be a Dancing with the Stars rehearsal going on in my belly. We saw a 3D image of baby’s face this week and my eyes filled with happy tears at the sight of that furrowed brow and button nose! Swoon. There’s a hint of some snow storms in the forecast, which we desperately need to keep that Christmas vibe strong. When John returns, we’ll make nog and decorate the tree and add more lights to the house. It’s his last work trip before baby arrives and we are looking forward to savoring this season- our last as a twosome. To say “life is good” feels trite, but it is. Take a look.
This grape-flavored mess was a Godsend after being sick for a few days! Also: BELLY.
Granola-filled mornings. I miss you, coffee!
Rough life. (Note the number of pillows on this Mama’s side of the bed!)
Honey Crisp apples are the new pineapple around here. Baby can’t get enough!
Tiny things for the tiny thing in my belly.
Maternity humor (with some truth to it!).
This fussili pasta with pancetta, cranberries, and kale was scrumptious! Try it.
The biggest wind chime EVER at the Christmas tree lot! Stay tuned for more.
Saying goodbye to Papa for a week.
Feels like fall! Time for a snow dance!
KILLS ME.
Do you DIY? I shared a simple recipe for bath salts.
View from the porch.
AOL Lifestyle shared one of my tasty appetizer recipes in their holiday roundup!
Boxes of Christmas joy to be spread throughout the house.
Peek-a-boo toes on a snowy walk. There was a lot of huffing and puffing above 7,000 feet! #bump
One year ago, we were immersed in full Christmas insanity in New York City!
Two years ago, we were prepping for a big holiday shindig.
Three years ago, we were making LOTS of eggnog!
Four years ago, tiny Cholula was new to the family. LOOK AT HER.
Five years ago, my adorable condo was ready for Santa.
And at the moment, Cholula is demonstrating her mid-morning nap skills.
You know. Just the usual bliss.
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the usual bliss 
How did that giant windchime sound?
Loud and deep! It was crazy!
I LOVE IT GLAD YOU ARE FEELING BETTER MISS YOU ALL
Miss you, too!