Meredith finished her finals and got home in mid-December just in time to wrap presents.  Her boyfriend, Trevor, spent a day with us, too, before heading to his home near Rochester, Minnesota to celebrate Christmas with his family.

Meredith entertained us with an oral interpretation of that holiday classic, "Olive" the dog who thought he was a reindeer.

My mom and Pam's dad joined us for dinner on Christmas Eve.

Checking out a gift inside the Norwegian flag sack, Firemann appeared pleased to get something better than a lump of coal.

The next day, little sister Franci and husband Neil entertained the Vukelic clan.  Turkey, ham, games and great conversation made for a wonderful day.

Jaylia and Pam talk about school work [as in working in school].

Jenna and Colt open a present in the gift game we adopted several years ago.  I did well by pulling the highest card in the draw.  I was hanging onto the Roy Orbison four-disc collection until Jason threw doubles in a dice variation Franci added to the end of the gift exchange, thereby allowing him to exchange his gift for mine.  Drat!

Jason and Brian pose with their grandmother.

Bill and Elaine watching the exchange

2009 is ayear.  Remember--it is never too late to make your mark.

Happy New Year!