JKB in Turkey: Two Christmases.

Dear Friends and Family,

It's New Year's Eve. Yippee. Jim and I are waiting for the clock to turn to 10 p.m. so that we can attend a small holiday get-together at our friend Paul's across the street. I am miserable with a cold, so this about as much adventure as I can muster tonight. I thought I would tap out a new blog entry in the meantime. (First below, Adam lifts Morgan's spirits; second below, Courtney and the Nutcracker; third below, Cora)

Christmas '08 was a good one, although the snowiest month in Madison history (around 40") circumscribed my opportunities to partake in the festivities.

The first destination was Jim's family farm in Elroy, WI. Between snows, Jim and I snuck up north for a couple hours to enjoy his family's Christmas. Jim's brother Rich and sister-in-law Mary took over the farm from his parents, and they have been quite successful. A major remodel has made the Houzner farm the ideal locale for family get togethers. One new addition was particularly impressive. Rich and Mary commissioned Amish carpenters to build a cabinet that they had engraved with family history of the farm and pictures of the previous generations of owners. (First below, the rec room; third below, cousins Lance and Brandon; the Houzner chest)

Guitar Hero was the computer game sensation at this year's Houzner gathering.

We spent about a quarter of our time up there herding families together for portraits. (First below, the Weilands; second below, the Richard Houzners; third below, the Christnovichs, fourth below, the Chutes; fifth below, the Dave Houzners; sixth below, Joe and Kathy)

Elroy also had a visit from the Clauses. Brandon looks thrilled.

Here are few more snapshots. (First below, Gretchen, Kari, and Carol; second below, girl cousins -- sorry about the red-eye; third below, Dougie and Uncle Jim put on their game faces)

Between Christmas celebrations, Jim and I returned to Madison. He cooked me chili while I did snow removal. After we ate, we had the energy to give Bucky a bath.

A snow on Christmas Eve and the threat of snow on the 26th compressed Bob's, Jim's, and my visit up to the Bragg family Christmas into Christmas day and night. Despite its brevity, the occasion was packed with quality time. (First below, Mikey and Kenny goof around; second below, Jonathon; third below, Bob riles up Kenny)

We met up at Lisa and Jon Hurlburts' house in Colfax. The Christmas meal was a customary Turkey feast. Lisa's menu was excellent -- especially the carrots and the peppermint stick cheesecake. (First below, Jon carves the bird; second below, Lisa whips potatoes; third below, Bill presents his appetizer dish; fourth below, the spread)

Of course, there was lots of time before and after the meal for gabbing. Jonathon, Susan, and David Hurlburt were there. Mom, Dad, Bill, Don and Hope, and their family stayed for most of the afternoon before returning to Rhinelander. (First below, Jonathan and Leila; second below, Bill and Hope; third below, sisters Susan, Emma, and Leila)

The fun activities during the day consisted of some weird board game that Bill won, snowmobile rides, and, for me, sledding with Emma. (First below, Mom and me; second below, Coco and Dad; third below, Emma Angel)

Everyone marvelled at Leila's sweet disposition.

Still, it was all very exhausting ...

The Hurlburt family has remained cohesive and happy as it has grown ... (First below, David holds Leila; second below, Susan and Jon)

I got my wish, too ...

Stephen was a little crabby that day due to a cold, but Leila held up well. (First below, Don enjoys a moment of naptime bliss; second below, Uncle Jim's new favorite?)