So, we didn’t end up flying back up north for Christmas as planned.

Since my dad is covering another doctor next week, he is going to be insanely busy and requested that Sister and I stay home this week so that he could see our faces.

And when Dad makes a simple request like that, it’s pretty difficult for us to say no.

I was pretty bummed that I’d be missing out on Christmas with the cousins. Especially when THIS is the extent of our Christmas decorations at home:

I started to go off on a rant in our family group text about how it didn’t even feel like Christmas anymore. But I stopped myself shortly after I started. Because I sounded like a whiny, spoiled brat. I am blessed beyond belief to be celebrating at home (and with our single stocking hanging above the fireplace). There are so many people who don’t even get the option to be with family so, for that, I am very grateful.

When we found out we were staying, Sister and I went to the gym and then to Trader Joes to pick up some supplies for dinner tonight. One of my favorite games to play while waiting in line to check out is the, “Guess What’s For Dinner” game. Where you glance into people’s shopping carts, analyze their selections, and figure out what’s on the menu at their house. It’s also a good game to figure out who you would be friends with (e.g. people with LOTS of wine).

Sister and I found a recipe for Eggplant Parmesan. Which is RIDICULOUSLY challenging to make. So, unless you have a troop of people that are willing to dip sliced eggplant into three bowls of a variety of ingredients, fry each slice of eggplant, and then layer slices into a casserole dish, YOU CAN FORGET ABOUT IT.

It was also a little more challenging because Sissy wanted to make her own tomato sauce.

I may or may not have burned some skin during the frying process.

Also, it was BEAUTIFUL outside, so I may or may not have burned a few of the eggplant slices while I popped outside for some quick pics.

But it all turned out DEEEEEEE-licious in the end. And we have a massive amount of leftovers. Who wants to come over?

Dinner was a hit. And since Sissy passed out before everyone ate it, I got to accept all the compliments and pretend I slaved away over the stove all day. Nobody will eeeeever know. Except my Nani. Who tried to out me earlier and say we were both in the kitchen. Ugh. Grandparents. Trying to love everyone all the same.

After everyone left and the dishes were all clean, I curled up next to the fireplace with my Kindle. I’ve already read two books this week – almost done with my third. I’m going to need more recommendations soon!

Merry Christmas! <3