A holiday decorating contest turned into a masterclass in rolling with the weather. The atmospheric river drenched our front yard display, shorted the circuits, and left our ten-foot Yeti with gravity-defying soggy fur. We didn’t take home the win, but we did find something better: perspective, humor, and a reminder that the brightest moments often come after plans go sideways.
From the driveway, the season threw another curveball—a couple inches of water pooled on the driver’s side floor of a ten-year-old SUV. We talk about quick fixes, patience, and the reality of aging seals when the sky refuses to cooperate. While mapping out an early-morning plan to catch the stealth bomber fly over the Rose Parade route, we navigate recovery needs and choose accessible viewing spots that make the tradition doable without a hike. Along the way, we reflect on the artistry behind parade floats, the powerful glue that holds petals and bark in place, and what happens when rain threatens months of volunteer work.
Back at home, our rain-averse dog adds comic timing to the mud and maintenance, and we get honest about what communities save—or don’t—when stormwater rushes to the ocean. Sleep becomes our north star, fueling recovery and the small daily choices that add up to resilience. If you’re juggling holiday expectations, weather setbacks, and the hope for a dry New Year’s moment, you’ll find solidarity here and a few ideas to make next time gentler and more fun.
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