The big day arrives

I want to thank everyone who worked so hard so our family could enjoy the house and it's first holiday. I really think all would have come happily even with the porta-potty that, until almost the very last day, was the only alternative. Yes, this was the traditional Callahan, Giles, Howard and Sedney celebration ... too hectic at first, but moments when warmth and laughter fill the rooms with joy. I wish we could figure out how to be together more than a day or two around these family holidays.

This also marked the first and I hope last time, dear old Dad had to go out an get a tree on his own. Was it also the first time that the tree arrived Christmas Eve? Here Patrick and Grace decorate.

Mia warms herself by the fire.

Everyone, including Bob, played games the afternoon of Christmas Eve.

Grace, Mia and Sally .... first the front ....

and then the back ...

and of course everyone has a chance to just sit and relax .....