That’s right, last I mentioned that we celebrate Christmas with the Shaws, Melinda’s side of the family, on the 24th. And on the 25th we celebrate with my side of the family, the Smallmans. So we had 11 over for gift-opening and dinner today, including my parents (see today’s photo) and my brother Scott’s contingent of 5 – partner Sally and daughters Stephanie, Tammy & Olivia.

As it was last night, it’s always a good situation when family comes over. I made the main course tonight, a lemon-basil baked chicken breast recipe that was decent but not great. I chose it because it was simple to make.

I took the photo moments before Scott and family arrived. My parents, Ella and I were playing a horse racing game I picked up for some late afternoon entertainment. If you study the photo carefully you’ll see my dad, a glass of beer, something to do with horse racing, a Christmas tree, and my mom. That’s not a bad combination for him, you know. The rest of us, too.

Merry Christmas!