Oh my....look at that counter. It is now only hours until we celebrate the New Year. Now a days I celebrate by staying awake long enough to see the ball drop at Times Square! LOL
This past Thursday was our family Christmas party. As with most families, our gathering began in the kitchen. We know where our priorities are. lol
Pictured here from the left is my oldest niece Terrie, her daughter Emily, Terrie's friend Mark, Brian and my youngest niece Lisa.
Debra, my nephew's wife and their son Brandon.
Kim, Lisa's sister, and Terrie
Curtis, Terrie's son, Terrie, Emily and Mark
Pooch, who was married to my sister who died 14 years ago, Alan, my only nephew and Amber
Bridget, my nephew's daughter and her friend from North Carolina
After we ate we had our gift exchange. Each year we buy a small gift and play what we call a Chinese Christmas. We start with one person selecting a gift either by age or birthday month. This year we started with the months. When its the next person's turn they can either select from those gifts under the tree or they can steal a gift from someone. Believe me, there's a lot of stealing going on!!! After everyone has a gift we begin opening the packages. After all the gifts are open, the oldest can either keep their gift or trade with anyone. At this point their is a lot of negotiating going on!After our gift exchange we divided up into teams for a lively game of Pictionary! Bridget is my far the best player, so each team captain was trying to get Bridget on their team.
During the course of the evening we reflected back on other Christmas gatherings when those who have passed were still with us. In a way, they were there with us!
That's a brief summary of our family Christmas party.
If you are planning on being out tonight please be safe. I want to see you in the New Year!
