We’ve been returning to Austin for Christmas for the last 34 years. The only exception was in 1991 when Britty-Boo was born seven weeks early and had to spend Christmas in the hospital with all the other little preemies in their incubators. Now Brit has a baby of her own.

Cousins Rachel and Brit got in some face-time.

Ellie caught up with her cousin Collier.

Sisters spent quality time together.

Ellie played auntie to Margot.

Rachel played auntie with Margot.

Brother-in-laws talked about the hottest album playing on KUTX – Butterflies on a Bomb Range.

Margot helped her Lobo open his gifts.

Afterward, Margot entertained her cousins – Caroline and Lucy Pearl.

Later still, Margot twisted the sisters’ hair.

And Margot kept her grandparents busy.

Throughout the holidays, Margot was the Belle of the ball.

Margot’s mother and Coco were pleased with her behavior.

Karen and I stayed at our favorite place in Austin, her cousin’s casa-del-sol in the Bouldin Creek neighborhood.

It’s the only place I know where it’s not unusual for a peacock to walk by.

Although I have to believe the white peacock was a bit rare.

Ellie stayed at her papa’s house.

There was room there for Margot to setup her race track. Margot had the best Christmas ever. We all did.