So Aaron and I were supposed to leave for Texas on the 21st, have an easy time of driving there with the two dogs and make it easily before Christmas. Well, work got in the way and suddenly Aaron was working until the 23rd. He was ready to cancel Christmas. But I offered to drive all night while he slept if he drove all day the next day and now we’re heading to Texas tonight! With a stop for some proper rest (and present opening) in some Motel 6 on Christmas Eve, we should make it to the in-laws in time for Christmas!

I feel like we’ll be starring in our own “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” movie, JTT style.

Though we’ve made this road trip several times together over the years, this one is going to be a little different.

• We’re bringing BOTH the dogs this time. Usually we only take Jackson who is a wonderful little traveler. Not sure how Peezu’s gonna fair, but we’ll soon find out.
• It’s the first time we’re taking a car other than Aaron’s Camry. Aaron’s car is a stick-shift. I don’t drive stick. I’ve tried and I just end up having major anxiety attacks. This has made for many a fight on our road trips. I keep promising every year to get over the fear that I’m going to cause his car to explode and help drive, but then I always freak out and end up a sobbing mess on the side of the road. Poor Aaron.Well this year my dad offered us his Civic Hybrid and it’s an automatic! Which means we both get to pitch in. I’m happy about this.



• This is the first year (for me) that we are actually going to go to his folk’s house ON Christmas. Which means, this is the first year that I will be away from my family on Christmas. No opening presents in their living room in front of a fire. No stockings that my mother needlepointed. No Nat King Cole Christmas music blaring on speakers all over the house. No Boston Terrier dog drowning in ribbons. No trading gifts with my sister. No coffee and hot chocolate on a tray in Christmas mugs while we open presents. For the first time ever. Weird.Luckily my family has all decided to head to San Francisco to watch the USC bowl game this year, so I won’t feel like they’re doing all that without me. AND I love my in-laws so much that I know I’m going to be just as happy and comfy and Christmas-y.
• And this is the first year we’re leaving in the cover of darkness, which worries me. But I’m sure we’ll be fine.

Well, on that note, I should really finish getting everything ready to go.

Happy Holidays my lovely readers… all 5 of you.



Merry Christmas, love the Finleys