Phew! Can't believe I haven't had an entry since December 18th. What a busy but wonderful two weeks.
The Christmas season began December 22 with Julia's arrival from the south of France. Julia has joined us for Christmas for 16 of the last 18 years and is truly a part of the family. She quickly adapted to the new time zone and we were off to Jeff and Claudia's in Niantic for Christmas Eve.
Julia and Jeff
Beth Tunick was here again this year (with Claudia).
As was her daughter, Liz.
Beth and John
Jonathan was up from New York....
as was Patrick....
and Ted (talking to John).
At dinner with Marina.
The table looked great.
So did the roast.
Claudia and Marina
A fun time was had by all-Liz and Patrick
Julia and Patrick
Beth, Jeff and Marina
And once again, we had lots of laughs playing "Catch Phrase."
Christmas morning was next and Julie, Dave and Heather joined us. There were those big stockings to open (made by our friend Jane Garcia 28 years ago!)
Dave's gift from Heather was just too intriguing so we made him open it first.
What could the tower be?
Of course....13 boxes of "healthy" breakfast cereal. Remember Boo Berry?
They say it's better to give than to receive.
But receiving can be fun too!
Julia watching the proceedings...
and got her bear.
Yes the true spirit of Christmas was with us all.
Wait.....is that Julie's arm around Tucker!!!!????
It was a great morning...one of great joy and family. Patrick took the week off so there were nights of bridge with Julia, dinner out, a party for 30 in Julia's honor, and then Patrick's birthday party Friday night. Chrissy was able to join us.
There were some gifts to share with her.
Then it was on to dinner and Patrick's cake and gifts.
Hmmmm....what is it?
Still not sure about this one!
Once again, it was another fun night. Happy Birthday, Pat!
On December 30, Julia returned to France. And today, Sunday, Chrissy and Patrick headed out to Long Island for a New Year's Eve party. And now John and I are home again with just each other. It's quiet once more and while there is a small sense of loss, the memories created this past week will remain forever.
Tonight we'll go to the movies as it's the only way we can stay awake to watch the ball drop!
Then tomorrow, New Year's Day, it's on to putting away the Christmas decorations, watching the bowl games. and oh, yes.........I've got to finish Julia's Christmas gift which for some reason she neglected to take back to France.
Guess that means there will be one more thing to do....follow the annual New Year's resolution to lose weight!
Happy New Year, Everyone! A wonderful 2007 to us all.