Christmas week vacation

Been on holiday/vacation since Saturday and finally doing a blog. Going back in time a little to mid December it seemed the stars were lined up for an incredible run on extended family Christmas get togethers finishing with a quiet Christmas at home. Saturday with my side at Mom's apartment facility's function room that we reserved for the occasion. Sunday brunch with Carol's side at our house. Unusual to be able to schedule all this on consecutive days. So the week preceding this the forecast for Saturday became an all day freezing rain. Well my siblings and I hedged at postponing as our sons, daughters, nieces and nephews and their families turnout was looking to be very good. Then Friday morning we received news that our niece Jen who was pregnant with twin boys and husband Adrian had gone into labor early, by a month and a half! Doing well. So brother Dave and Carolyn would be staying close to Jen, Adrian and the twins who are in Massachusetts. At that point between their family's absence and the deteriorating road conditions that would take place on Saturday we decided to postpone to the following Saturday with whoever can make it breaking up the dream weekend.

Sunday was a beautiful day, bright and sunny, the yard and driveway were icy. Ian had come up from Kittery the night before, Ali staying at her parents for family/church activities. After breakfast Ian and I were out breaking up ice and sanding down the driveway before the guests arrived and Carol preparing some cooking and setting up the dining, etc. Once everyone was here much talking, munching, drinks ensued followed by a sit down feast of a variety goodies from everyone with several favorites that are yearly staples.

Gift exchanging came afterward, lots of fun there, always a great time. After everyone had left Carol, Ian and I had our own gift exchange between ourselves with Ian leaving soon after to rejoin Ali for Christmas at his in-laws.

Christmas Day, Carol, the cat and me. Pretty low key, checked out the gifts we received, some Facebook time. Did not do our usual day long movie trilogy, just weren't feeling it this year. Maybe this weekend. Snowed about 12" from early morning into late afternoon. Nice not to have to travel. Once it stopped snowing we went out to clean up the driveway, deck and pathways. Ian and Ali are coming up to spent the weekend with us. Saturday is a go for my side of the family to get together. Looks like we will dodge a storm system coming toward the coast.

A lot to be thankful for: family, well being, job issue settled, a white Christmas. The twins are in a special care unit for about a month as their lungs develop otherwise in great health, made from good stuff.

Time to hunker in for a long winter.