Continuing our long standing tradition of our extended family
Christmas Extravanganza!
Sister Nancy was up to bat this year - hosting the entire family of 22 at her and Randy's house in Palatine. Starting at 3pm, it was hours of love, a great meal and watching the kids and grandkids just have fun.
All of Laurie's family were there, all of the Perryman's were there, and all of our family were there including all the grandchildren. You can tell it was a big crowd from the picture just below left. Sadly, Mom in Florida and the Gallo Clan couldn't be there this year. They were missed.
Was a bitter cold day with more than a few inches of snow on the ground. Winter is here.
After all settled in with the drinks and the treats, who should stride into the family Room but Santa Claus himself!
Ashton, Calvin and Addie scattered when Jolly Old St Nick appeared, but Thor greeted him, wondering what was in that big Red Sack for him.
Santa called out each of the Grandkids and produced a package for them all. When Cal's name was called, he dashed over to Santa - took the gift and retreated to the safety of Dad.
However, we were able to get them all together for a Photo, before Santa had to depart to ready himself for his deliveries starting Christmas Eve. All the kids thanked Santa, and with a nod he was on his way.
Following that, Nancy laid on the Christmas Dinner and compared to prior years - it was unrivalled. Ham, Mostaccioli, Brown's Chicken Tenders, Cheesy Potatoes, Spinach Salad, Jello, Deviled Eggs, Rolls, & garnished with Olives and Gherkins! MAGNIFICENT!
Pies, Portillo's Chocolate Cake, Cookies and about the best homemade Fudge you ever had was for Dessert! DOUBLE MAGNIFICENT!
The kids had their annual Secret Santa exchange, with Ryan ecstatic that he got a Fondue Maker!?!
The sisters retreated to the Parlour for their Annual exchange - as always forgetting that there is a BROTHER in this family that is ALWAYS EXCLUDED from this tradition! BAH, HUMBUG!
Thanks to Nancy & Randy for all the work they did on the party. Thanks to Laurie, Kathy and all the others who brought food to this Festa!.
As the day wore down, we assembled for a family wide picture that you can see above left.
Our Family is such a Blessing!
Praise God For He is Good!
Merry Christmas!
Christ Our Savior Is Born!
Visit www.rickyjohn.com for more about our family!