What do holidays mean? Photos. Lots and lots of photos. Here are a few from my Christmas experience this year.

Getting a healthy dose of Christmas spirit at the Trail of Lights in Austin.

My buddy Vince was commissioned into the Marine Corp just before Christmas.

The look Cain gave me when he thought I was leaving him in Austin.

Christmas morning at my mom’s.

Christmas lunch at Michelle’s (her tree was awesome!).

Michelle and my mom posing against their will.

Playing with their new toys.

Family time.

Roman and his favorite pastime: posing for the camera.

How I got through the holiday… just kidding… maybe.

Roman opening his gift from me (I stole Santa’s entire sack, as you can see).

Poor Lucy wondering why all the gifts aren’t wrapped in dog treats.

Oh, and the best Christmas moment? My mom–who attended a church service for the first time in eight years–-accidentally exclaiming “Oh, damnit!” during Silent Night. Priceless.