Have a Holly Jolly Christmas

Yes, I am writing about Christmas in Feb. A very busy season again this year, but it was complicated even more this year with me being on call. We perservered, and still managed to have a great time, even though I didn't get to sit down and eat a meal on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day with either family. Oh well, such is life. Our celebrations started the Sunday before Christmas with a trip to the country for the Putthoff gathering. I truly loved seeing everyone, I don't get to see my extended family near enough, and watching the kids have a blast with their cousins.





Next stop, Christmas Eve and the Schulte gathering. I did miss most of the festivities, but I had a great time while I was there. Rumor has it that it was a fun-filled evening for all. Of course, chaos ensued during gift exchange, but that's to be expected.



Christmas day was spent here at the homestead. Mom and Dad, James, Tara, Shane, Casey and Kathleen were here to help celebrate. Once again chaos reigned, but it was a great feeling. The gifts sent to us from Okinawa were a huge hit and deserve and entry all on their own, so they will get what they deserve. Kudos to my brother and sister-in-law for really livening up the day. We had all sorts of excitement throughout the day: we solved the world's problems, laughed a lot and listened to some pretty tall tales. Also we enjoyed the pegasus/unicorn Casey made for Tara. We didn't have any problem getting the younguns to nap and I think some of the elders could have used one also. All in all, I think it was a pretty spiffy day for everyone.





Last, but certainly not least, the Lathrom family gathering the Sat. after. Once again, lots of laughs and craziness surrounded this gathering. Most of the family was there, which is a feat unto itself. We had a large array of food, games and beverages. It wouldn't be our family together if we didn't play cards and scrabble while the kids run around.





All of these events had a few things in common: family, food, and tons of fun. I will say the food, glorious food, may have been a downfall for me. I'm still trying to wear my jeans comfortably after all this. Oh the sacrifices we make for our families.