Christmas Eve

The best thing about Christmas is being with those you love. Christmas Eve, this old house was overflowing with this in abundance. Four generations made memories. We ate, drank (iced tea by the gallon), and were exceedingly merry, especially when Santa made his annual visit. All the little boy cousins (and the one little girl) were enthralled by his arrival. The youngest two just wanted him to leave quickly, though. He was just a big bright red and scary stranger to them. (Just wait until next year!) Then we opened presents around the tree. As usual, there was a blur of gift wrap and then it was over. Thanks to all of you for the thoughtful gifts. I'll treasure the photos from Susan and Matt and the pottery from Allison and Tommy and the robe from Cindy and Ray. Many thanks to Margaret and Susan for sharing your snapshots. I was too busy coordinating and working behind the scenes and trying to catch my breath to take photos. I'll do better next year. At the end of the day, I very much felt like Luke in this Christmas classic doze in his dad's arms--exhausted and loved.