Here it is!

It’s been a grinch of a year (mostly of the orange variety) so this year’s card “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” seemed quite appropriate. It also happens to be the 60th anniversary of the publishing of the book.

Brendan had this idea several years ago but coming up with how to pull it off seemed a bit tricky. But with weeks (months) of planning time- we think we did a pretty good job. What’s an O’Brien Family Christmas card without costumes, wigs and make up – especially when Brendan is the mastermind?!

The background was the icing on the cake- a last minute find on Amazon. Special thanks to the Tinlin family who let us borrow the Santa top and Maureen for taking pictures.

We have a lot of fun making our funny cards and we hope that they bring a smile or laugh when they are opened. It’s one of our favorite traditions!

Past O’Brien Family Christmas Cards:
2016- Love Big, Live Big, Celebrate Big
2015- Home Alone
2014- A Christmas Story
2013- Stringing Up the Lights
2012- Deck the Halls

The days leading up to this year’s Thanksgiving I worked on drafts for two chapters for my book project. One was about Community Servings- the Jewish community’s response to the AIDS crisis, a customized meal delivery program. The second about one of the founder of the Living Center and the BLC Thanksgiving Dinner.

I bought a couple of pies to support Community Servings annual fundraiser. I also posted a few pictures on Instagram remembering Thanksgiving Dinners past (this year’s dinner will be held in December). It was a nice way to remember to be thankful and just, remember.

Thanksgiving Day was a great day- we celebrated with family and enjoyed Emilee’s first Thanksgiving (well she slept through most of it). We try to remember how very lucky we are and try to be thankful all year but it’s nice to take the time to remember just how much we have to be grateful for.

“Don’t save something for a special occasion. Every day of your life is a special occasion.” (Thomas S. Monson)

Sunday was a busy day so we had Sunday dinner tonight with the good China, fancy glasses and candles. Because, why not? So glad the kids are old enough to be able to (finally) use nice things!

The next night I had not planned anything after visiting with old friends from work. So we ordered pizza, soda and ate in front of the TV. 

Life is all about balance.