Family Time

Last weekend I flew back to California for my family's extended Christmas party. Every year we have a huge Villa-Castadio Christmas party. My Nonnie used to host it when I was younger, but when she passed my Aunt Jeanne took over hosting it. This party which includes everyone on my moms side of the family (my aunts, cousins, 2nd cousins, nephews) and then also my mom's cousins, and my mom's cousins aunts and uncles, nephews, nieces, and I think I might have included some people twice, but you get the picture. It's a huge party. This year there were close to 40 people. It is always a riot. My family is full of very tall men, aunts with laughs that synchronize, and just about everyone has a boisterous voice. There is always great food, drinks, and a lively gift exchange game. My Aunt Jeanne hosted it in Pismo Beach this year. Usually it is located in my home town Lemoore, California, but she decided to host it in Pismo to accommodate all of the cousins that live off of the central cost of California. My Aunt Mary rented a bunch of motel rooms for us all to stay the night in, which was very sweet and generous of her. I roomed with my cousin Jessica and her too boys Roland and Martin. After the party, there was a large group of us that went out to Harry's bar. This bar seemed a little strict to me (no drinks on the dance floor!?), but we had a great time.

I was hesitant to make the trip to California just for the party since I had just gotten back from Maryland with Eric for Christmas. I knew that I would only be able to stay 2 days and the plane tickets were pretty expensive, but I am so glad I did. I had such a great time with my family and I am even more excited to see everyone again in June for my brother Alex's wedding.

This is my family! From left to right: Candice (Alex's fiance), Alex (Brother), Nick (Brother), Josh (Stepdad) , Mom, Me, and Nathan (Stepbrother) 

Alex, Me, and Candice

My brothers!

Every year there is one gift in the gift exchange game that is Road Apples, which is basically packaged horse poop. The Road Apples come in a box that looks like a chocolate box. Whoever ends up with the Road Apples has to bring them the next year as their gift. My Nonnie picked them up years ago and this same box of Road Apples has been in our family for over 30 years. 

This picture of Alex and me was towards the end of the night when we were all at Harry's bar.