holiday hoopla

happy holidays, friends!
the hoopla is in full swing and thus, another blogging hiatus. 
the combination of giving grad school exams and the holiday hype has me seriously behind on life. 
here's what's been happening.
thanksgiving was a great reminder of all life's blessings. there was delicious food. and games. a ton of laughter. jovial children. and a perfectly wonderful time with the johnson family. 
after a husker win on friday morning, C and i headed south for kansas city. it was high time for a little weekend getaway.  
plaza lights were gorgeous. 

and the shopping was pretty fab too. nearly half of our christmas list is complete!

last night we started our own christmas traditions during the decorating madness. sharing this season with C makes it all so special. we have been waiting a long time for this. too long. it feels good to spend the holidays together. and with our families. it feels good to start new traditions. and one day continue them with a family of our own. indeed, this will be a magical season. may yours be merry and bright, as well.