Christmas Eve we loaded up and went to the Chapel of the Venerable Bede (where Catherine and I were married). Ian got to acolyte and read one of the lessons, Leah was in the choir and also got to read some prayers. I think they enjoyed taking part in the service.
We met up with my cousin Jon - I got to meet his wife and two kids for the first time. We met at a park and then we hightailed it to church. Nancy came ahead of everyone else to help get the kids ready for the service - everyone else was cutting things close, so I grabbed this photo of just us and Nancy.
Christmas came not too early, and Santa was good to everyone. The kids had a great time for the small gathering (below) and also for the big gathering (30-40 people). All of the kids received gifts during the big gathering - there were so many presents spread out on the floor, it was hard to walk.
We stayed a couple more days after Christmas, enjoying Rogue 1 with the whole family as a nice getaway. The last morning I talked everyone into stepping outside for a family photo. I took four shots, and this was the best of the bunch.
As I write this we are just a couple of hours away from the new year. This past year has been challenging, to say the least. Through it all, Catherine, Ian, Leah, and I have been deeply blessed. We wish you and your family all the best this holiday season, and pray for a healthy, happy, and prosperous New Year!
God Bless -
Marc
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