Christmas Eve at the Mill: Santa comes!

Decorated cupcakes ready to go to the Mill for the much-anticipated annual Christmas eve party, where Santa pays us a visit!

Great Patrick shot of Alice and Griffin at Salsa Salsa

All dressed up for Christmas Eve party

On our way!

Patrick calls this Alice's Williamsburgh hipster look

Griffin sported his Dragon suit and handmade shoes, all tailored and made for him in Hoi An, Vietnam. It's definitely the last time he wears these shoes, sadly, as they bring back such great memories, and were the first time Griffin showed his once and future flair for expressive fashion.

Abraham wore his Indian Deepavali outfit

Alice and Uncle Pappy! Alice wore her Indian outfit bought in Kerala, India.

Patrick and I love reconnecting with cousin John at these events

The mill! With cuzs Tom and Carol, looking suspiciously like Mr. and Mrs. Claus



The real Mrs. Claus! Allison hosted us all at the mill - she is hostess extraordinaire.



Aw, pup!



Little Dean on the island playing with us in the muck, next to the mill



Griffin, Dean, and Nick chasing each other

The mill, as viewed from the island. My grandfather made this mill his own, and now our family's own for festive, warm celebrations

Santa came! Click HERE to see Santa in action.

The wonder of Santa, in Boom's eyes. He's staring at Santa in awe.

The cousins' annual photo with Santa

Singing carols - Dad's secret talent. Mom made the carol singing happen this year.

Aunt Jo, Alice, me and Aunt Molly singing together in my favorite moment of the entire event, snuggling in and singing with joy with some of my favorite women in the world.

And, ending Christmas eve with a monopoly game -- Patrick and Brendan add the festive to our holiday celebration with their enthusiastic game playing and fun selves

December 24, 2011

Griffin's blog: We went to the Mill where about 40 relatives were there. There was good food and filled stockings. We sang Christmas Carols and then Santa arrived. We got 3 presents each from Santa and cousins. It felt great to see Santa after 2 years away.