This was an intense one. My brother-in-law’s family business is at risk of failing - leaving the principals feeling guilty, and their interests out of alignment. My niece moved out on her husband, and she and her son are living back at home. My mother-in-law was inexplicably taken off her meds, became violent, and hid her dentures in anger - she’s back on her meds now, but unfortunately, we can’t find the dentures.

So, we invited everyone to spend Christmas at our house to break up the routine and get a fresh perspective on it all. This is a hard drinking bunch - but this time we set a record. We went through two fifths plus a flask of scotch, more than a case of wine, countless bottles of beer, and lots more. Seems like everyone had something they were trying not to feel.

Late nights in the hot tub, and singing and playing guitar by the campfire were unforgettable. The last night, we told the unvarnished truth to our niece about the aspersions being cast her way. Hard stuff, but important. So, holiday cheer became a holiday intervention. Hope it works.