Saturday, December 30, 2006
Christmas in Carmel, CA
Well, we are back from our annual trip to Carmel. Scott's mother lives there and it was her year for Christmas. We did the normal touristy things: Monterey Bay Aquarium, Highway 1 scenic drive, picnic on Carmel Beach (Yes, in December!).
The last time all of Scott's siblings were under one roof was four years ago. His mother wants us to get together annually, but his sister always has to plan two years out. I love my sister-in-law, but I don't get the two years out thing. She says the family is big. Umm...heck...I have a large family too. Probably even larger, but somehow I even make it work. So, at the dessert table, we had this large conversation about when we are going to get together and it was decided at our house in 2008. Scott's sister said it was expensive to get together every year. Yes, I know it is expensive to travel cross country to meet with family, but you have a year to save up. Mom had to go on a long walk after the conversation -- it was drizzling! She was crying when she reappeared. No one wanted to talk about it.
The good news is Scott's mom said she may be selling her house in Carmel Valley and moving to Austin. It may take her a few years, but she is quite alone out there. Scott's sister lives between San Diego and L.A. I think his mom feels by moving to the Valley she would be able to see her daughter and grandkids more often, but the truth is Scott's mom had to make the trip. Very rarely did Scott's sister and husband visited since it was an eight hour drive. Mom usually made the drive to visit Scott's sister.
Scott and his mom talked earlier this month and I think he convinced his mom to move to Austin. She even announced it at the Christmas dinner table to her children and nieces. By moving to Austin, she would have a more affordable lifestyle, be close to her sons, and be able to be a part of our child's life.
The last time all of Scott's siblings were under one roof was four years ago. His mother wants us to get together annually, but his sister always has to plan two years out. I love my sister-in-law, but I don't get the two years out thing. She says the family is big. Umm...heck...I have a large family too. Probably even larger, but somehow I even make it work. So, at the dessert table, we had this large conversation about when we are going to get together and it was decided at our house in 2008. Scott's sister said it was expensive to get together every year. Yes, I know it is expensive to travel cross country to meet with family, but you have a year to save up. Mom had to go on a long walk after the conversation -- it was drizzling! She was crying when she reappeared. No one wanted to talk about it.
The good news is Scott's mom said she may be selling her house in Carmel Valley and moving to Austin. It may take her a few years, but she is quite alone out there. Scott's sister lives between San Diego and L.A. I think his mom feels by moving to the Valley she would be able to see her daughter and grandkids more often, but the truth is Scott's mom had to make the trip. Very rarely did Scott's sister and husband visited since it was an eight hour drive. Mom usually made the drive to visit Scott's sister.
Scott and his mom talked earlier this month and I think he convinced his mom to move to Austin. She even announced it at the Christmas dinner table to her children and nieces. By moving to Austin, she would have a more affordable lifestyle, be close to her sons, and be able to be a part of our child's life.
