We had a fun time with family in Ohio. There was a beautiful Christmas Eve service with lots of music and communion.

My mom cooked an amazing meal, with three different meats because yes, we have picky eaters and she must really love us with all of that additional work. It all came out super delish

There were cool gifts and lots of cheering when people opened them up.

One of my favorite memory was the trip down the farm lane so that these two could fish. The boy caught three small mouth bass. We think we might have seen a badger hidden in the hollows of a tree. And I just loved being back out in the country on the land that I love with all of my heart.

There was a trip to the park to see Uncle Larry’s court. Someone has gotten much better at shooting.

Uncle Mark came to see the pups. And yes, they remembered him.

There was more fishing at Aunt Suzy’s and of course at another relative down the road from the house…can you see a common theme.

We spent some time with Uncle Dale and Aunt Margie. They marveled at how tall Zach has become.

Two day trips to the YmCA kept us busy. Here’s a cool active video game where you throw balls at different things.

Of course, we made it to our favorite pizza joint. I wasn’t going to mention that we had this pizza the first night home too.

Miraculously we were able to capture all three dogs in front of the tree. Treats, they’re a good thing.

Mike and Zachary made it to a warm Eagles game on New Year’s Eve. We won’t talk about the result. And this was the day before someone broke his wrist playing pickle ball. Hint, it’s not the youthful one…but rather the guy who thought he could make a youthful move…only to find out that he couldn’t.

And finally, I’m a big believer in those who have passed coming to visit. This cardinal has been banging on the window in the room Uncle Larry used to sleep. I like to think it’s his way of saying hello.

Happy New Year!