Clovis Cousins

Evan and Vivian have 11 cousins (Jo's family has kindly provided them all). They see their six New Braunfels Cousins most often, though clearly not often enough. In the last year they've also seen their Clovis Cousins (they are only temporarily in Clovis, New Mexico but it's got a nice ring to it) more often they usually do. And then there are a couple more cousins who are shrouded in mystery. 

On Christmas Day all but the Mystery Cousins were under one roof. But no one took any photos. But here are some photos of Vivian and Evan and Ava with the Clovis Cousins from the days leading up to Christmas. The second photo was taken and texted by Aaron in Gusto, an Italian restaurant up the street from us.

Aaron and the boys were at Gusto for lunch. Jo and I were at Whole Foods buying stuff for Christmas day dinner. And Beth had taken Peyton and Vivian to Target.

There isn't a Target in Clovis. The nearest is a couple of hours drive away. I try not to go shopping. But imagine being two hours away from the nearest sashimi place. Or a breakfast taco bar. I feel your pain, Beth.

Vivian was warned that this trip to Target could be longer than normal. But she was ready. She took her purse with $13.25 in it to spend on herself. Once she got there, she had an experience like never before. When Jo or I take her to Target, she usually rides in the cart so we rush from one aisle to another and out the red doors as fast as we can. Apparently it was different with Beth. They visited various sections. And lingered lovingly and browsed and learned the joys of the "price checking machine".  She loved it.

But Vivian had an ulterior motive. She wasn't just there to have fun. She picked out, with plenty to help from Beth and Peyton, a Christmas gift each for her parents, Grandma, Evan, and Carol's three dogs (yes, even despicable Sadie). She knew exactly what each of us would like. She shopped and debated and listened to advice and decided. And she returned home with $3 still in her purse.

Next year I'm taking Vivian Christmas shopping.