The holiday season has officially begun for us, because of two occurrences..............

One--the Christmas Village is finally up!!!..............

In all it's glory!.....................................

And magnitude!...............................

And two, we are invited to our first holiday party at the home of Mercedes and Paul...........

My cousin, Mercedes is a cook by profession and her annual Soup Party is eagerly anticipated each year............

Sisi and Danny are enjoying the fare--although Sisi seems to be eating from an imaginary soup bowl. Did I mention that there was also holiday libations offered?

Louie--looking like the perpetual teenager--is enjoying the party........

As are Cathy and Grandma..............................

This is Mercedes' beloved grandson..............

Dwight is not one to waste an opportunity to devour good food......

There was even a jolly man in a red suit in attendance.........

Danny ignores the grinny sisters.............

Unfortunately, the celebrating is interrupted by a visit from the cops........

The culprits!! These little imps had called 911 three times and the police had to check it out!

Aunt Phylis is laughing, but since she was "in charge" of some of the youngsters, the man in the red suit isn't laughing anymore. There will be some coal for you in your stocking, Phylis!

But Alice--that bon vivant--says "Way to Go!".....................

The Chavezes prepare to depart--Sisi has her leopard Santa Hat on...............

On the way home we circle the plaza where Christmas decorating has started........

Back home, the village still burns bright...............

A bit obsessive are we?