We have had a busy and wonderful Christmas week, despite my still-punky feeling.  My recovery from emergency surgery has been slower than I expected, and I've been sort of dragging around most of the days. However, yesterday, we journeyed up to Jamie and Amy's home in the woods, and had a marvelous celebration with the whole family except Annie (and hers) and Aaron (who was with his dad).  The house was decorated everywhere with twinkling candles, the food was perfectly prepared and delicious, and the friendship could be felt everywhere. It was my first long outing since my surgery, and I'm so glad I was able to be there with my loved ones. Matty rode up with us, and it gave the three of us a chance to visit and chat. The whole experience made me, once again, totally grateful for the wonderful life I have.