Ever since Pap died in '01 and Gram had to move into a smaller home, Mom has taken over the role of hosting our "Christmas Eve Tradition"… (basically, that means - when Dad's side of the family gets together and anything goes!) This year we had the pleasure of being joined by Great Grandma Jean (82) and Great Grandpa Rich (76, or 77?? ….how about just plain old - OLD!) to help us celebrate. And what a celebration it was! 
As for a little family history... 
I don't get to see them too often. Maybe once or twice per year. Our busy schedules (afterall, they both do still work!) and 45 min. drive to and fro, unforturnately, keeps us at our distance. However, I wish I could spend more time with the two of them. I learned that after this past Christmas Eve. There is a lot of history there… the experience and wisdom that comes with age, and not to mention life's lessons that they've learned along the way, as well as, important historical events that they've witnessed and 
lived 
through, etc. and if I don't make time to take it all in soon, I may never know at all. Something has always fascinated me about the "senior" generation. They all got "stories", ya know? Some may not be as "interesting" as others… but some fascinate the heck out of me. For some reason… I don't know, I've always been that way. 
that when that side of the family gets together it sometimes 
isn't always smooth! But, typically, everyone's been getting along just fine these days - or so it seems. Now that I am out of my house at home, I don't always get the "scoop" on the family drama (if you know what I mean). But like I said, things have been going well lately. Another one of those lessons that most often comes with age, experience and well-earned wisdom ; ) It is okay to disagree with one and another at times... As it is a normal human reaction that everyone experiences... 
But, on the other hand, drawn out disagreements and family feuds are just a waste of precious time. (<--This is the same lesson I've been trying to teach Matt. Not that we fight a lot but if a disagreement arises, there is no 
use letting it turn into anything other than that. 
If we do, we're wasting time. And you only get to live this life once so why not make the most out of the precious time that we have?) I believe "Forgiveness" is what that lesson is called. And it is a lesson that could take a lifetime to learn if you let it. I am right on cue with the season here, aren't I? Wait to go ME! So, I've included some pictures of our gift exchanging, the fam, and some other misc. things (like the bowl of chips we were eating -> (For the record, I didn't take that one) for you to enjoy. Also, included in the post is a video like you've never seen before. If you don't believe me… ask yourself this question? 
How many people in their 70's and/or 80's (a bit intoxicated might I add) have you ever seen play boxing on Nintendo Wii? Enjoy!
lam
