We had quite a party here today, and we loved seeing so many friends and family.  Many thanks to lots of people.  On our staff, Linda Thigpen, Julie Dail and Cindy Brown worked very hard to plan the party, to distribute gifts and to just generally coordinate all the details.  Our friends from Daughters of Penelope, for the 39^th year, provided great snacks and party decorations; and, the Klaver Clubs from Hughes and Beck bought gifts for each student and came for the party as well.  Also, gifts from the Furman Heller Service were greatly appreciated, as was the help today from Christ Church School volunteers.  Stan Miller, Chuck Myers, Terri Wilson and Keith Powell did the “Santa Duty” and made sure we got pictures of everyone with Santa for the year.  As you can see, celebrating this holiday has definitely been a group effort.  Thanks to all.

Before today’s party we had lots going on this week.  Polar Express Day was great fun, thanks to Jennifer Lancaster and Sarah Ashworth who worked very hard to make it happen; and, this week we also had a group of students from Brashier Middle College Charter High School who came bringing craft activities to share with five of our classes.  Our wonderful PTA served us all lunch on Wednesday, and throughout the week we had classes who went to  visit the Festival of Trees downtown, went out to eat, and went shopping or bowling –we have very experienced bowlers here at Washington Center.  Also, our little folks at Hollis continued their study of Christmases across the world.

We will all be back on January 4^th, and that first week we have PTA meeting on Thursday at 1, and several classes going shopping, or our favorite activity, going bowling.  I hope each of you will have a wonderful holiday.  Stay safe and find time to relax. We will look forward to seeing everyone back in a couple of weeks.