Christmas Arrives Early

Pretty much every Thanksgiving we are graced with the good company of my sister-in-law, Marianne, and her husband, Greg.  This year was no exception.  They are some of the easiest-going house guests I know, easy to please and eager to help.  I recently OD'd on volunteerism so between the school's silent auction, an upcoming garden club luncheon and our seemingly never ending list of home repairs (note: house full of active boys) and projects we had plenty of opportunities to satisfy their appetite for helping.  What wasn't filled by projects and holiday decorating swap-outs, our long and oddly spring-like holiday weekend time was spent strolling about the neighborhood, savoring a glass (or two) of wine around the outdoor fireplace, and, much to our children's delight, celebrating Christmas a little early thanks to the thoughtfulness of Aunt Marianne and Uncle Greg.  Sad to see them go but we shall meet again - either in the Keys or up in the Great Lakes for a summer weekend boat ride.