'Twas the night before Christmas and Charlie was low. He hovered in the fifties and sixties three other times that day, as we hosted a family Christmas eve gathering. The seasoned veterans that we are, we took the lows in stride and had a wonderful day. A juicebox here, an extra cookie there and Charlie was back in business.

We may have even discovered a new Potash family Christmas tradition when we broke out a box of Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Beans and turned it into a game of chance. Vomit, sardine and booger were my least favorite jelly bean flavors.

Quotant Quotables for 200, Alex

"Dad, will I need a site change on Christmas?"
"No, you just had one."
"Oh, good! I wouldn't want half of my day on Christmas ruined."

And more Christmas cheer from Charlie

"Charlie, do you feel low?"
"No, but I feel low in my heart."

The kids woke up Christmas morning at 6:10 am. By 6:23 am they were done, leaving miles and miles of wrapping paper carnage behind. Maeve was pleased.

We enjoyed fresh ham, mashed potatoes, squash and cinnamon sugar butter cookies. Ben, however, was more interested in what Bernie was having.

Don't you hate it when reindeer don't clean up after themselves? So rude!

Have a happy and healthy new year!