I mentioned that J’s apartment was beautifully decorated – take a look at how pretty everything looked…

Lots and lots of presents to be opened…

The dining table is almost ready for our festive lunch…

Yummy quiche and a wonderful salad. But I forgot to photograph the beautiful and delicious dessert offerings – Christmas cookies in the shape of a star because J. said her friends were all stars, homemade and fabulous shortbread made by S., chocolate chip cookies, salted chocolate caramels and – of course – black licorice. What would our Mah Jongg games be without black licorice?

Sebastian had a great time peeking into all the gift bags and playing with ribbon and even trying his hand (paw?) at a game of Mah Jongg!

What a wonderful way to usher in the holiday season – and a happy and healthy holiday to all!