Dec. 2, 2010 - post-Thanksgiving relaxation

Riley was all caught up in the excitement of waiting for Santa's arrival

Santa was escorted by the fire department since his sleigh is hindered by California's lack of snow

What's all the excitement about the guy in the red suit?

The fire truck is where all the action is! (the other little boy is just a few months older than Riley; the older kids were all about Santa but the toddlers were more impressed by the big red truck)

Daddy and Riley taking in a beautiful view of the east bay from an upper section of Lake Chabot

Aza going full speed through the clearing

The kids running around

Riley taking a break with Joe at "2 Rock Point"

Seamus and Chad hanging out

Riley really loved Aza and was sad to see her and Joe leave

Happily relaxing in her pajamas on a lazy Sunday

The day after Thanksgiving, Santa arrived in Castro Village (the same shops that hosted trick-or-treating) escorted by the fire department. Riley could sense the excitement from the other kids and got into the spirit even though she had no idea what was going on. She was moderately amused by Santa Claus, who led the kids in singing "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer" but was very excited about the big red fire truck. We didn't stay to sit on Santa's lap but we will do it soon, I can't wait to see how that goes.

After Santa's arrival we headed to an upper area of Lake Chabot to hike off some of that turkey and gravy. Joe and Aza stayed with us a few days and we all enjoyed the views. We reached a flat spot where the dogs and Riley got to run around off-leash and they were all so happy.

By Sunday our guests had all departed, we were in full-relaxation mode (although Chad spent a good part of the afternoon working, his job is very demanding these days) and spent the entire day in our PJ's watching football. A perfect end to a wonderful, long Thanksgiving weekend. We hope you all enjoyed your holiday as much as we enjoyed ours.