going home.

Today we head back to Chicago from a wonderful Christmas shared with my sister and her family.

This was a fantastic trip. We were able to stay for five days. The kids all got along, for the most part. And Christmas was as magical as ever, with Santa dropping extra goodies down the chimney here in the foothills of Denver.

Chrissy's family and extended family are fun, warm, loving people. Doug's mom and sister are really like my very own family members. I've known them for well over 20 years now. And their brother-in-law Gus, and his parents are great people all on their own.

It felt as good as being at home.

But today we leave, and it's the part I dislike about visiting. Having to say good-bye.

It's never been easy for me, all the 17+ years Chrissy's been out here. Try as I might, she's not moving back to Chicago. And with all that I have in Chicago, it's not likely I will be moving out west anytime soon.

Time to shake off the sad feelings though, and be thankful that this trip was as beautiful as it was. We got out here safe and sound, despite bad weather on both ends. We were embraced by our Denver family, and were able to spend quality time with people we love.

And that's really what it's all about.