Ohio Christmas Trip

Do you think it's real or artificial?

This year we did something different and made a second trip to Ohio to spend Christmas with my mom. While we were there, several of my sisters were there (Tina & Amy) as well as my brother David. My sister Carol lives across the street.

We also enjoyed a visit with my brother Kurt and his family on Christmas. That ended with a spectacular and hilarious game of "Mad Gab". Amy was brilliant.

My sister, Mary Lynn and her family stopped by on Monday. Congratulations and best wishes to my niece Hannah & her husband Dave on their expected new addition (due this summer).

To the delight of Richard, our visit included a healthy amount of Ping-Pong and attending a couple hockey games.

During our drive to Clevo, we listened to the audio edition of Peter Heller's book, The Whale Warriors. It is a story about the Sea Shepherd organization. Richard enjoyed watching the TV show, Whale Wars.

We did a day trip to Columbus to visit Lynn's relatives in Dublin. Had a very delicious "lunch" before heading to the Nationwide Arena with Lynn's cousins (Danny and Mary) for an NHL game between the Columbus Blue Jackets (a favorite of Richard's) and the Calgary Flames.

It was an exciting game that went the distance. Unfortunately, the Jackets lost 2-1 in a shoot out.

Wednesday evening, we went to the "Q" in Clevo to watch an AHL game between the Lake Erie Monsters and the Grand Rapid Griffins.

We had very good seats at mid-ice (and Lynn even sat with us since it wasn't so high) but extremely LOUD. Fortunately, the home team prevailed 5-4 in overtime (after blowing a 4-0 lead). Ironically, the Blue Jackets mascot was at the game and Richard got his picture with him (see above).

Creche at Assumption Church

Mom, Amy, Carol, Tina.

Me and Richard

Carol's dog, Joy, with her Christmas present.

With all of the people coming and going, Mom's cat, Boo, was not a happy camper. Not exactly friendly to begin with, Boo was especially "sharp" during our visit (Carol and Richard have the marks to prove it).

BOO!!!

We had a great time, enjoyed seeing so many of the family, and appreciated the hospitality and good times. Peace.