Whew, it’s over!

Molly hosted our Christmas Eve white Elephant/ Ugly Holiday Apparel party. As usual she put out a great spread and the gift exchange was a hoot. Our caravan of 8 carts (that’s the beginning count) rode around the Villages wrapped in blankets last night looking at the Holiday displays and are looking forward to our New Years celebration. Beth’s brother Bob is here as well as Ron’s sister and friend. RC has his mother, Grand daughter and friend Al, all in residence this year. Wow!

The in-laws continue to improve. Dad is up and getting around in a walker. He is a bit better each day. Elaine’s whole clan is in, complete with 6 adults, 2 kids and three dogs. Dad is going out tonight for dinner at the newest of the clan to move to TV full time, Tom and Monica’s house for dinner. This is the first time since his knee surgery that he has ventured out, and I am sure he is getting a bit stir crazy. We got a very beautiful Christmas arraignment (and an Edible one for the Folks) from Gary and Carrie and Kelley. It reminds us that we miss them and hope they will be down for a visit soon.

Both of my girls being here for the holidays is a nice treat for me. They are seldom both in the same state let alone under the same roof. It has been nice to see them play WII and laugh and fight and enjoy each other’s company this year. We’ve had a lot of quiet down time together just playing cards, talking, and enjoying each other’s company. I know that may seem boring but it is a luxury that we did not often allow in our hectic lives.

We’ve survived another Christmas. This year has been a blur. I usually enjoy the holidays, but if the truth be known this cold that has settled into my chest has made me less than festive. I am going through the motions, but my heart is not quite in it. I’ll be better soon.

2010, Look out!