I try never to be in any picutres if I can help it, but Paul shot this one after I had four glasses of wine so I didn't really object.

I always make the potatoes for the family gathering at Paul's sister's house on Christmas Eve. My hands are still brown from peeling so many! My cheese and onion potatoes were such a hit that I think I will make a bigger batch next year. I made a big batch of plain ones just in case anyone (like Paul) likes things old fashioned but I think Paul was the only one who had any so next year I will only make a small pan. I went back for seconds on the sour cream and chives, and I know I wasn't the only one, so I will try to remember to make the same amount next year.

Overall everything was a success. Gloria cooked a turkey and Shelley cooked a roast of beef so there was plenty for everyone. It was great to see Leigh and his girlfriend Jennifer made it down from Toronto to spend the holidays in Saint John. I can't believe how much he has grown up since the last time I saw him just two years ago! One day he is a teenager and then all of a sudden (so it seems) he is a man. The kids were just as excited as ever and I always enjoy watching them have fun. Thanks to Shelley and Barry for hosting the gathering at your house again this year! I know it is a lot of work, but we really enjoy it.

Scott and the family dropped over for a short visit after we came home to bring surprise gifts. I say surprise because we don't normally exchage gifts with them as we do a family name exchange instead. Lets just say we all had a good laugh and your gift will really be enjoyed!! I took a great picture after you left but Paul didn't want me to post it online...lol.

Mom came over for a visit and it really nice. I took her to Shelley's last year with us but and she was quite overwhelmed with all the people and noise so I thought it was best to leave her home this time around. She has never been great in social situations anyway and last year she had to go home and lay down after because it took so much out of her. I made Christmas dinner at my place for her and I think she enjoyed it. She doesn't really cook much for herself so I think she really enjoyed all the food more than the presents. Plus, she missed Daisy. It is funny how Daisy remembered her and knew that she can't jump up on Nanny so she was so gentle. It was adorable!

Paul and I both have to work tomorrow so we will miss the Melvin family gathering in Moncton this year. So, hope you all have a great Christmas and know that we miss you and hope to see you soon.

I tried that squash recipe Les and it was really good. It wasn't quite as fluffy as the original recipe but it was still good....good enough that I am making another batch tonight with dinner. It has been the closest to the original I have made yet, so thanks a bunch!

Merry Christmas everyone!!!