Well 2013, you are looking pretty dang nice.  A little quieter, perhaps kinder. You aren't as pushy as 2012, but I don't mind that at all.  I like your pace.

We kicked off the new year with some friends in Ballard/ Wallingford.  Dinner at Bastille, cocktails at Mal's and a brisk champagne walk toward the lake to catch the fireworks at the Space Needle.  It was beautiful.  I didn't think I'd get to see my roomie, but as we ran into my apartment for more layers after dinner, we found her in the kitchen making tea.  Sickness had sorted her plans a bit and with a little coercion she was running out the door with us minutes later.  

We called the night fairly early (for it being new years).  The next morning we had breakfast plans and we wanted to be ready.  Elise, Jeff, Auri, Ty & Elsa all joined us for the first official "hosting" at John's place.  We'd worked hard over the weekend to prepare - planning, shopping, buying & building a table.  But somehow we still weren't quite ready as our friends began to arrive.  That seems to be the way it goes.  And thankfully, with friends, it's almost better that way.  Elise jumped in and started frying bacon. Auri wandered in and out of the kitchen, round our legs.  She picked out "my special seat" and "John's seat."  She didn't mind where the rest of us sat so much. 

( John's fridge also got a bit "prettier" )

I love this girl and especially how she gets a certain look on her face.  She locks someone in, walks right over to them, smiles and cuddles up.  My favorite is when it's me, but no matter who her 'target' is it's always a joy to see her loving on all her Aunties and Uncles.  She is a delight and a joy so much bigger than her tiny little frame.  We were all playing games and chatting when she found her way to the floor right between Elsa and I.  She put one hand on each of our knees and she just sat there with the girls, entirely content. I love her. And I love how her giggles can fill up a room.  

After hours of food, coffee, laughing and games we said our goodbyes.

The rest of the day was spent relaxing, with sweat pants and cold cereal.  Family phone calls and well wishes.  A hunt for an open ice cream place, and eventually a movie with my parents.  John was shocked that I insisted we stay in our sweats for the movie.  As we walked out of the theatre he informed me with a smile, "I think you've made a monster.  I love wearing my sweats to movies!"  I may be ruining this man.  8 months ago he said something like, "I'm not really a sweat pants sort of guy."  He eventually dug up a pair somewhere.  Things have changed since then.  I hope he forgives me one day. : )