Thursday, December 25, 2025 – Day 499

Thursday, December 25, 2025

Good morning, everyone.
Merry Christmas! 🎄

This is a special Christmas for us. While Alex usually joins us for Christmas morning, this year we’re lucky to have Nikki and Zack here too—along with our two grandkids, Wyatt and Coco. I can’t wait to see their sleepy eyes as they cautiously walk into the room, scanning the tree and the fireplace hearth to see what Santa brought.

Last night we celebrated with the Balasi clan… or at least part of it. Mark stayed back with a sore throat as a precaution to protect me. Any illness—especially one that affects the respiratory system—could spell trouble, so his decision was thoughtful, even though we definitely missed you, Mark.

Nikki’s childhood and best friend, Haley, made the drive out to Crystal Lake for a visit. Her husband, Abhi, and their two-year-old son, Shef, came along too. Haley and Nikki don’t get to see each other often, so it meant a lot that they made the hour-long trip on Christmas Eve. It added something extra special to the day.

This morning, I’m looking forward to carrying on our family traditions—the hand-knit stockings, opening presents one at a time, and the inevitable mini-meltdown when it’s not someone’s turn yet. And if things go south, we now have a new entertainment feature in the house that’s been a big hit. The chair lift has doubled as a carnival ride, and Coco has taken on the role of operator. Nobody goes up or down without her say-so. She’ll make a fine Teamster someday.

It’s all about family today—and about being right here, in this moment. I don’t take that lightly. These mornings, these traditions, these sleepy faces and small meltdowns… they’re the stuff that stays with you. I feel incredibly lucky and deeply grateful to be sharing this Christmas together, exactly as it is.

May your day be filled with warmth, love, and moments worth holding onto.

Love you guys! ❤️