This year, we decided to host Christmas Eve dinner (my family's tradition) at our apartment. With the new puppy consuming most of our time, we didn't do a ton to make it fancy, but everyone seemed happy with the setup. Everyone helped us out and brought food to contribute, and we made broiled king salmon with pesto. It was quite the feast! We decided not to do presents this year, and I thought it might be weird, but it was actually really wonderful to just get to focus on time with the family. We made a contribution to a local charity instead and we couldn't be happier with the decision! My sister Cristina and her husband, Josh, weren't able to make it up from Los Angeles, so that was a bit of a bummer, but other than that, it was the perfect evening filled with great conversation and good wine.
Henry was, of course, the man of the night, and my family just couldn't get enough of him. He was a really good pup and slept on my lap through dinner (even passing out with his little head on the table!). It's crazy how much joy a little puppy can bring. He makes us smile so much!