Hanover, MA (USA)

I woke up at around 0600 and, because rain was forecast (100% chance) later in the day, I got dressed and took a walk in the neighborhood (including the Hanover High School track) near Katie's house (started at around 0715).  I was gone for about 1.5 hours so, when I got back to Katie's, I found that my umbrella was coated with a solid layer of rime ice (!).  Still, I was glad that I'd gone outside early because it rained for the rest of the day.  Had enough time to get cleaned up and dressed before any of Katie's kids were awake.  When they finally came downstairs (0915), we spent a few hours opening gifts and having a nice, relaxing morning.  Christmas Dinner guests started arriving at around 1130 and it started to get very crowded.  At that point, I retired to the kitchen to help John with preparing the Christmas meal (I made mashed potatoes and John made a delicious ham).  We also set up the table and everything was ready at 1300.  The whole (extended) family ate together (mmm) and then played a game called "Awkward Family Photos."  From that point, there were games, TV, visiting, music for many hours...  At around 1700, Mollie and Erin and I got on a FaceTime call (Brenna never made it) and talked about our holidays (I also took Erin on a virtual tour of Katie's house).  After most of the guests were gone (2000), Katie, John, Carolyn and I went out to the hot tub and relaxed for over an hour.  Even after we were done, I talked with John until after 2200.  By the time I went to bed (2300), I realized I'd been drinking, on and off, for almost 12 hours - very, very out of character for me!  Still, this was one of those days that is just one long happy memory - I'm so glad I could be with my family for Christmas.