Coast, Curls & Coffee: December 2013

This past Sunday, my dad's side of the family had our "Christmas Eve." And let me just forewarn you, my family makes the CUTEST children ever and this post is mostly showing them being their precious selves.

The best part, in my opinion, of this whole night, was that the real Santa actually came to my cousin's house to pass out some gifts. I was pretty starstruck to be honest, but I had to remember he was just there for the kids...

No, I'm totally kidding. Santa would be way too busy this time of year. But my dad did dress up as him, carrying on a tradition my family has been doing for years, and let me tell you, it was the most adorable thing ever. The little ones were SO excited. He came in, got some big hugs at the door, had the kids sit on his lap to tell him what they wanted, gave them some presents, and then he left (to the back of the house where he could ditch the Santa suit).

It had to be a bit of a fast goodbye because his beard had a mind of its own and would not stay on. We had some close calls, but no children were scarred by seeing Santa's beard fall off his face, thankfully.

Merry Christmas!

Before I say anything, I just want you to know that I love Christmas.

So keep that in mind when I say that Christmas just needs to chill a little. I mean a few months ago there were Christmas decorations in Costco. And the day after Halloween... look out.

Now, very few wait to celebrate. (Rhyme unintentional but appreciated.)

I am one of the few who still respects Thanksgiving, if you will. I like waiting to decorate, put lights up, listen to Christmas music, etc., until after Thanksgiving. Sorry if I offend anyone.

I waited to write this post about Thanksgiving because I wanted to be an advocate for the fine holiday and give Christmas a little taste of its own medicine.

Since the majority of people start celebrating Christmas before Thanksgiving, I am going to do the same, yet opposite, right now and gawk over how great Thanksgiving is during the Christmas season.

SO TAKE THAT CHRISTMAS

LET'S SEE HOW YOU LIKE IT

This Thanksgiving was a good one. The day was a nice sunny one, making me remember how blessed I am to live in such a lovely place.

In the morning, I did the Turkey Trot with my sister. It was our first race and we got to experience it together! Can you say precious? We did the 5k because we aren't as intense as all the 10k runners. But next year, watch out all you 10k'ers... The Manzo sisters are coming for you.

It was a really good experience even though some nice gentleman pushed me...

The second half of the day was spend at my aunt and uncle's house where some of my dad's side congregated. It was a full day of laughing, eating, eating, laughing and eating.

No, it didn't end there. On Friday, my mom, dad, sister and I took on another part of the fam, my mom's brother, his family and my grandma. It was so great so see those sweet people.

Oh and then I saw Michael Bublé in concert that night making it the best night of my life but since I could go on forever, I'll stop.

Let me just say I am very thankful for Michael Bublé. God knew what he was doing with that man.

But wait there's more.

On Saturday came the last of our family Thanksgiving celebrations. We went to my mom's cousin's house where I got to see my wonderful cousins. Again, laugher and eating were the night's main ingredients.

Three nights, three celebrations, only one food coma, and a lot of family time.

Thanksgiving for the win!

What a fun little Thanksgiving celebration that was. By reading that, you unknowingly supported my slight rebellion. I'm thankful you did ;)

About 90% of my family isn't pictured. BUT I STILL LOVE THEM.