With the New Year right around the corner I thought it best to share the fun (and not so much) we had during the Christmas Season...
We started the season with the annual Gala of Trees to support Boys and Girls Aid Society. Then had our annual Gourmet Group Planning 2012 Christmas Party. Next, we shared a wonderful weekend with our Granddaughter. Then...
My Mom had her annual Christmas Party! It gets better every year and while I was supposed to take pictures of all her wonderful decorations and food she had prepared I was caught up in all the fun with all the wonderful friends and family. With less than 1000 square feet she entertains and feeds about 35 - 40 guests! Everyone has a great time!
We're a close bunch... but you've got to be when space is limited ; )!
Mom and Aunt Eileen having fun in the kitchen...
Ray flirts with Sally...
While his ex and new wife chat it up...
Sibling photos...
And just plain fun...
I know I keep saying it but this was her best party yet! The food was spectacular; the guests were fun and we all had a great time! And here's a sampling of her decor from last year and I managed to get this from 2011!
Next...
A quiet celebration with Brent and Kat as they will be out of town this Christmas. We had a simple dinner with Chicken and Dumplings, went ot see Hugo on the big screen...
And then came home and shared lemon cake and a glass of milk!
Forgot to mention they got us a new goat...
With all the excitement and parties filling the season there has to be a little drama and mine was received the Tuesday before Christmas with a phone call from my Honey; he had been hit on his bike while riding to work. He was OK but his bike was trashed. He rides 11 miles to and from work 3 - 4 days a week and I'm so thankful he wasn't seriously hurt; he was mostly upset about his bike. It would have to be replaced and in the mean time he would have to ride his old winter bike which isn't nearly as much fun. So what does one do when your honey gets hit by a car, goes into work for the day and really only needs a bit of sympathy from you? Well, I went to yoga class.
So just a reminder when you're out there driving... Please stay focused on the road. That phone call, text or whatever else can wait till you're stopped.
OK... On to Christmas Eve! My sister sent me this photo taken at her house. There was so much going on I didn't have a chance to pick up a camera! Our family is loud, fun and loves to eat; we definitely have a good time together...
After that celebration we headed to Bill's Moms house for a bit more celebrating and a chance to visit more family!
Without Brent and Kat, Christmas Day was a bit quiet... We opened gifts and Tuesday loved her new hat with the simple bow I made for it...
We played with the trains...
Collaborating to fit all the pieces together and make one giant track. I think the big kids had the most fun!
After a nice dinner and couple lemon cookies, Papa bundled Tuesday up and they headed for home...
As 2011 comes to a close I take this time to reflect on all that I have to be thankful for!
Family & Friends... You are at the top!
