Patti (Nana), Mary Grace (14), Elsie (12), Drew (22 months) Mike (Dr. Danks), and Virginia (7)

Another Christmas is now in the history books. It is too late to lament over what was planned and not done. It is too late to wish that we had more time. Christmas 2019 has passed, and with it, all of our unmet expectations and desires have also passed. We can now rejoice about what we enjoyed, received (and I am not referring to tangible gifts!) and experienced. Christmas 2019 will live forever in our hearts.

Mike and Uncle Barry

Christmas Eve Candlelight service at Trinity Baptist Church

Our family celebration included our traditional candlelight service at our church, Trinity Baptist. This has been our church home for thirty-one years. After our candlelight service, we had a Christmas Eve dinner of Prime Rib, roasted potatoes, and peas and carrots hosted by our precious MoMo. This meal was in honor and memory of MoMo’s mother, Bernadette, who always made this meal for her family. Bernadette passed away in May at the wonderful age of 96 years young.

Virginia, Elsie, and Mary Grace waiting to be called downstairs.

Virginia and our grand-dog Finn. Finn so enjoyed his first Christmas!

Christmas morning began with the granddaughters waiting upstairs before they could come downstairs, once the adults had turned on the coffee and were all up and ready. “All” included Uncle Barry, 89 years young, who celebrates this holiday with us. Grandson Drew arrived soon after the opening of presents began. The rest of Christmas Day was relaxing and enjoyable, with the kids playing with their toys, working on a puzzle, and reading. Then Christmas day dinner was hosted by Bryan and Paula Monahan, and twenty family members and extended family enjoyed a delicious meal while catching up with each other.

Drew checking out the ornaments and the presents!

 Mike’s ornament tradition. Only those who sleep at the house are on the ornament each year.

I hope that the holiday has been peaceful and joyful for all of you and your loved ones. May the next few days have us remembering 2019, while we prepare for the promise of a new year.