The holidays came and went with plenty of eating and getting together

First on the list of parties was the Nelson Neighborhood Association potluck. We arrived two hours early and put the building in the holiday spirit with decorations. And plenty of people came and enjoyed them. Over thirty people attended, each bringing their own dish to share. Plenty of food and drink was had by all. And it was a great chance to socialize and get to know our neighbors better.

After work pretty much finished up it was time for a quick trip to Chicago to celebrate with the Rinsema family. More good food, fun, and presents. And time to enjoy Joy, our neice. She was the star of the party and spent almost the entire time unwrapping presents. I think she definitely has enough toys for the coming year. Topped the fun off with a nice long game of Settlers of Catan, that took so long, in fact, that we didn't arrive at a winner, as the game was interrupted by dinner.

Christmas Eve and Day were spent with the Rinsema parents who came down to Muskegon. We enjoyed a perfect Christmas Eve walk down historic Jefferson St, all lit up with luminaries. On Christmas day we took a crack a turkey dinner, that worked out well. Raisins and walnuts in the stuffing were a big hit, as were the maple glazed carrots.

Christmas was divided into the Rinsema and Sybenga halves that were nicely placed on the either side of our first ever wine tasting party. Jon and Deb provided the inspiration and the procedures. The theme for the night was Napa Valley California wines and we tasted 5 different varieties. All of them were quite tasty, though I can say I remember the earlier wines more distinctly that the last few. A wine dictionary added to the fun as we all took turns using as big a words as possible to describe the look, smell and taste of the wines.Herbaceous!!

The next day Mom and Dad Sybenga arrived from California and most of the next few days were spent with catching up with siblings and parents. A highlight was a walk through Muskegon State Park. Gunner, Adrian and Jen's, dog, ensured there was never a dull moment.

Well the holidays are done and it back to work, but we are richer having had time to breath and enjoy time with friends and family.