By Alan Ayckbourn
Directed by Ellen Clare O'Gallagher 

Another year over, how time flies! We sent our youngest, Katie, off to school this year which means I have a lot more time on my hands. Neville's business is doing very well and continues to grow, but along with the success come the long hours. We are all looking forward to the Holidays to get to spend some time together without interruptions.

The whole family will be gathering at our house for Christmas, nine adults and twelve children! Among them my sister Patti and her husband Eddie who are expecting their fourth child early in the new year. Patti will have her hands full as Eddie has decided to start up his own business. Our sister Rachel will be bringing a "friend" home for Christmas. We are intrigued as he is the author of that controversial new book"Now Pull the Other One". Neville's sister, Phyllis and her husband Bernard will be there too. They are completely devoted to the children and go to great lengths to amuse the little ones. Bernard and Phyllis still run Bernard's medical practice. No talk of retirement there! Still, it's comforting to have a doctor in the house. You never know! Neville's uncle Harvey, on the other hand, is enjoying a well earned retirement from the security business. He will be spending an extended holiday at our house while he settles into his new life as a "gentleman of leisure". The children are very much looking forward to this visit as are we.

I hope that this note finds your family well. We would like to wish you all the best for the New Year.

Belinda Bunker
Performed by Phoenix Players November 27-29, 2003