2008 Lalla Gala

Since as far back as I can remember my father's side of the family, the Lalla's, have gotten together one Sunday in December for our annual Christmas party. This year was no exception! Traditionally, my wonderful Aunt Julie, as the oldest Lalla sibling, plans the entire Gala, complete w/ Secret Santa for all the children who are under 18 or haven't graduated highschool, whatever comes last. Grab bags for the adults. Pot luck dinner, complete w/ birthday cake for those who's birthdays are in December, and other deserts. And the best part of all, for the past few years, my Father has been the big guy himself, Santa Claus!

This here is my Aunt Julie, who puts all of it together each and every year:


This is my newest cousin on this side of my family, Nicholas, he is my wonderful cousin's Wendy's youngest son:


And with his mama, Wendy:


My Thomas nervous, he doesn't like large crowds:


My Mommy:


My Daddy, getting dressed as Santa:



Thomas, with his Poppy, er.. I mean with Santa:


Collin's 1st time sitting on Santa's lap:



The big guy and me:


My parents, brother, husband and two boys:


My beautiful, wonderful, amazing family:


The Lalla Elders, and their spouses.
From left to right:
Uncle Jack, Aunt Julie, Uncle Henry, Aunt Ann, Aunt Marianne, Aunt Carol, My Daddy Paul, and My Mommy Grace:


And lastly, my tired little Collin, after meeting Santa: