@Kim – She is a terrific cook, but after years of me complaining about her cooking too much, she’s scaled back quite a bit. For that I am thankful. A sedentary body requires very few calories.

PS–I wish we could just go out to eat tomorrow, but in a fit of insanity, invited friends over. I love holidays for the time with family part, but the whole “you must do this because it’s tradition” is not me anymore. I want to make traditions that fit our family and like you and Kirsten have said–less food, more fun! I loved it all until I was the one who had to do the cooking! :-) Does that make me a curmudgeon too? If so, bring it on!

I pretty much agree with what you’re saying; it’s certainly logical. I don’t believe in being a slave to “tradition” (at least not someone else’s invented tradition). However I have to admit I’m a little sentimental sometimes and look forward to those traditions that are meaningful, enjoyable, and make sense.