SIXTY-THREE

NEW YEAR'S Day came and went. . .

And in stark contrast to the chaotic Christmas Party, the New Year's celebration had been more blissful and less drama— courtesy of Jason again— and comprised more family members.

The last party had been a disaster, but this one had gone off without a hitch. Maybe it was because the kids were there, keeping everyone on their best behavior. Or maybe it was because everyone had learned their lesson from the Christmas party fiasco. Either way, it had been a peaceful evening filled with faces lit up with joy and excitement.

And that was what the holidays were all about. Being with the people you love, celebrating new beginnings and fresh starts.

And in that spirit, Doris had even tried to make the best of her situation. She tried to focus on the positive aspects of having Lydia around. She thought about how much Max and Nora enjoyed spending time with her over the last few days. Maybe there was something good that could come out of this