The 2004 Holiday Party was a smash hit this year. Thankfully, the weather cooperated and we had sunny skies all day. Approximately 75 people gathered at Boston College on December 4th, and spent the afternoon listening to music, playing games, and eating some great food supplied by the BC caterers.

The afternoon started with a delicious buffet of fresh sandwiches, salads, chips, and a wonderful assortment of desserts and candies. Following a filling lunch, continuous announcements were made for a variety of activities designed for both kids and adults. There was a jelly bean counting contest, a mystery gift guessing contest, and a Yankee Swap. There were also countless activities for the kids, including coloring, crafts and a visit from Santa himself! Santa very nicely brought some early Christmas gifts for all the children who came to the party. When he began to feel over-heated in his heavy winter suit, we reluctantly had to let him leave to make that long trip back to the North Pole. We’re sure he’ll be back next year, though!

The activity most enjoyed by many of the adults seemed to be the Yankee Swap. Each person was given the opportunity to choose a new, wrapped gift or to take one that had already been opened by someone else. For the most part, people kept the gifts they unwrapped, with the exception of one or two very popular items, including a $10 gift certificate to Target. Some 5 different people had their eye on that one!

The MSBA would like to extend its heartfelt thanks to all who participated and who helped to organize this great event – especially Jen Kuhar, Jen Fitz-Roy and the Boston College Disability Council. If you were not able to make this party, be sure to come to one of our next big events. The MSBA Youth and Adults Group has events scheduled for February and April (see page 7). Also, the MSBA hopes to have another great showing at the SBAA’s Annual Conference in June and, as usual, we will host a summer picnic at a time and location to be determined. Please watch the next issue of the newsletter for details!