New Year's and Family

We were blessed this year with a visit from Jeff and Chikako (my brother and sister-in-law) from Japan.  My mom and dancing partner, Bob also came to town over New Year's.  They all arrived on Dec 29th and stayed through the 5th.  We had a great time with them, ate lots of good food, did tons of shopping (a bit much for Jeff) and hung out at home. 

On Jeff's request we booked an appointment for a pedicure for Chikako. I couldn't let her get one by herself so I joined her.  It was Chikako's first pedicure and she chose clear polish.  I think she really enjoyed being pampered, I know I did.

The Wisconsin Badgers played in the Rosebowl on Saturday and we had a big bash at the house.  Jeff's friends, Eric and Christina, from Seattle came down to spend some time and for the game, New Year's Eve through Sunday.  It was a great game even though Wisconsin lost.  We all wore red and had brautwurst, Taco Bell (for Chikako), nachos and beer.

I took Jeff, Chikako, Eric and Christina to Kennedy School Saturday night for a tour and some beer/coffee.  The soaking pool was packed and people kept waving Chikako in to soak.  We went to the Boiler Room and had poor service but excellent quality time with friends.

Jeff, Chikako, Cooper and I took a trip up to the snow on Sunday.  We went to Carson, WA and found an access road that didn't require snowshoes.  We brought a sled for Cooper but he mainly liked to eat the snow, and sit on Uncle Jeff's shoulders. At the end he did ride in the sled with Chikako while Jeff pulled.  Riley came with us and was bounding in the snow.  It was a gorgeous day and we all had a great time.

We spent Sunday night at Grandma Lindsay's house and she cooked us a great casserole.  Chikako was unsure what a casserole was but she liked it and ate three helpings.

We only ate two breakfasts out, Petit Provence and Cadillac Cafe.  We had pizza from Hot Lips and Thai from Sivali.  Jeff and I got our morning, afternoon and evening coffee brew on daily.  Chikako left us on Monday and the rest of the family stayed until Wednesday.  It was great to all be together for the New Year and can't wait for Jeff and Chikako to live with us!!!!