Privet,

Hello everyone. Best wishes for all during this holiday season, no matter which day, date or holiday is most important for you.)))

For me, Christmas is a magical time. This time of year has always been a favorite. In my family, we decorate our Christmas trees in late November and keep them up well into January. December 24th, or Christmas Eve we always have oyster stew with lasagna or chicken parisienne if we have guests. It is a mystery to me why some people do not like oysters.))) Sometimes we go to Christmas mass or evening services.

Christmas day (December 25th) is the day we open presents. Opening presents is not so much fun with no small children in the family.((( Afterwards, is a time for visiting with extended family. My favorite Uncle lives close by. Christmas dinner we usually spend with my brother. My sister-in-law is by far the best cook.))) She always has both turkey and ham. Dinner conversation is always about politics, how to fix the troubles of the world and catching up with one another.

As a family, we do not watch sports on TV. Everyone helps with clean-up. We enjoy playing games and always take a long walk with the family dogs. Fishing and discussing the merits of various boats in the Marina across the street highlight the walk. We love boats. Returning home, we have coffee and dessert.)))

Gifts matter little. It is good to have everyone home and safe. Again, Best Wishes to All.