Christmas 2006

We spent our Christmas
with our families
Fa la la la la la la la la
First in Minnesota,
then in Point,
Fa la la la la la la la la
Prime rib
Tenderloin
Turkey and cookies
Fa la la la la la la la la
Presence means much
more than presents
Fa la la la la la la la la

OK, so it's not my most inspired work, but we really did have a wonderful -- if all too brief -- holiday with our families last weekend. We started with a couple of relaxing days on Highview Drive, finishing up our shopping and seeing friends and family. Stacy's family gathered a day early and had a delicious and traditional dinner of prime rib, mashed potatoes and popovers, followed by the family brownies for dessert and the English Christmas crackers. (Thus the funny paper crowns and little toys.)

Christmas, Part Deux took us from the Twin Cities to Stevens Point. We set out early from Minnesota and saw the remains of Friday's snowfall. What a gorgeous drive, and we could practically hear Bing Crosby crooning as we wandered into our own White Christmas.


Colin's family in Point was ready and waiting for us. How lucky are we that we get to celebrate not one, not two but three Christmases before Colin had to be back at work?

Christmas Eve saw us celebrating over on Water St., where we enjoyed a wonderful dinner, opened gifts and stocking gifts, and watched the holiday light bus make its way around town. (Note for next year's holiday planning: Find out how to get on the bus!) One highlight of the night was a new Benester holiday tradition: Find The Ring. (Ask Colin's dad.) In case you're wondering what we're puzzling over, among all of our fun gifts was a tasty basket of Italian goodies.

And on Christmas Day, we were on Howard Ave. bright and early to enjoy some of Colin's Grandma M.'s coffee cake and gifts. This is a ritual best enjoyed in cozy sweaters and jammie pants. Despite everyone's declarations they had scaled back on gifts this year, the tree was overflowing with packages. Stacy got some great books she's been looking for -- one is half read already -- and Colin is the proud owner of some new clothes and some home improvement books. Those will come in handy soon enough! The one disappointment: Colin has outgrown his authentic German lederhosen, which his grandparents brought back from Europe back in the day and his mom had lovingly saved all these years.

After a wonderful turkey dinner, we went home feeling well fed, over sugared and much loved. Thanks to all who made it such an enjoyable first married Christmas together!