McKenzie’s niece Maci is 8. Whenever she’s in Helena we try to go and see her because she’s so cool to hang out with. This weekend, before we left for the Harriman, we stopped out to McKenzie’s Mom’s and watched Maci open all her Helena presents.
She’s big into horses and was thrilled to get a full set of riding gear including these new jodhpurs and riding boots.
A No Sweat regular—Rodger—gave a generous Christmas gift to the Sweaties this weekend: enough 1980s vintage sunglasses to cover the counter-top.
According to Eli, Rodger’s professional skiing career was sponsored by Bollé and as a part of the deal he was given many, many pairs of sunglasses. Maybe he didn’t want to lug them around anymore because he decided to give them all a good home. There were over 20 pairs, more than enough for the whole Eller family and all the employees. (I got a pair!) Thanks Rodger.
After an afternoon of visiting with McK’s parents, looking after the house sitting, and sharing a sublime Christmas dinner—it was great Mom!—we all warmed up to conversation and cocktails.
After-dinner cocktails with McK, Jeep, and the Caseys.
Dad made several rounds of ginger martinis, a perfrect after dinner drink.
Little Bannack faught sleep to keep up with us all.
McK posted herself in front of the fire for most of the night.
This year’s Christmas was particularly special, as it was my nephew Bannack’s first. He got many beautiful gifts and was cheerful all day long. It is a Christmas to remember.
A Beautiful Boy With his Mom and Great Grandma
Far left is Bannack's new stocking that his Grandma Casey made for him.
Chris and Sara got him an heirloom gift: a New Zealand sheepskin.
Mom made her Grandson a whole outfit. Naked babies need clothes.
Grandma Irene joined her great great grandson on Christmas.
Mom reads to us all from Snipp, Snapp, Snurr and the Yellow Sled.
McKenzie is house, horse and dog sitting over Christmas. This means staying away from home and driving out to the valley several times a day to care for two dogs and a barn-full of horses. Evey night she’s out doing chores, even on Christmas.