Snowy Family Christmas in Truckee

Christmas Day in Truckee, and the snow actually cooperated — coming down past the windows most of the afternoon while everyone packed into the living room around the tree. Ugly sweaters were in force, including a GitHub one that got its share of comments. Wine glasses, candles on the ottoman tray, the dog working the rug for attention, one of the kids holding the floor in front of the tree. Nobody moved for a long time.

Stepped out onto the deck at some point after dark and the snow had piled up clean on the railing, the table inside already set and glittering through the window.

Then Santa showed up. Full suit, real commitment to the bit, wire-rimmed glasses and all. The girls sat on his knees for photos, one of them brandishing a rock candy stick. The men got their turn too — one of them planted a kiss on Santa's cheek, which Santa took with the expression of a man being paid in eggnog. Presents still under the tree in their Merry Christmas bags when he left.