We're off to spend Christmas Eve with family - a visit with my grandpa, and then a party at B's uncle's house. We're quite excited to spend our first Christmas in our new place, even though we don't have a fireplace any longer - after some experimenting we decided to hang our Christmas stockings on the doors of our hall closets as an alternative.

I'm still coughing a fair bit, but feeling better than I have all week. I'm also sporting some hives left over from an allergy attack - we were at a party with friends who have the most friendly and sweet cat, and without thinking I rubbed my eye after petting him, immediately triggering an a massive case of the itchies. It was so stupid of me - I *know* I can keep my feline allergies at bay as long as I don't get dander or fur in my face, and I just touched my face without thinking about it. Ugh!

I'm going for comfort disguised as polished for my Christmas Eve ensemble - soft black opaque hose, black ECCO heels that are excellent standing shoes, a jade lace stretch skirt, peacock blue sweater, and turquoise beaded necklace. It's much more comfortable to wear than it looks!

And yes, our tree REALLY is that petite.

I wish all of you a wonderful night and a merry Christmas for those of you who are celebrating.