Definition of Boonedoggle from Urban Dictionary: "An annual fishing trip for men only. Beer, Poker and cooking of meat on an open fire far outweigh the actual fishing part of the trip. Sleep is limited to short naps between meals, and during such moments of rest the other fishermen can make loud rude comments to disturb your bliss."
Well, this wasn't a fishing trip. Women were allowed and invited. Instead of poker they play "pong" (see
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dartmouth_pong). No open fires, as we are in New York City- but there was plenty of yummy pizza! And there were no rude noises- or at least Casey, thankfully, missed them.
This year's Boonedoggle (annual reunion of friends from Dartmouth who are either coming into town on their way to holiday vacations or just come for fun) was great! Elizabeth & Arnold Song stayed with us. It was fun having them. We saw friends from all over and had a blast.
(Elizabeth, Mark Woodard, Duncan, and Casey)
Dinner at La Mela on Friday night was kicked up a notch with the all boys table from Queens behind us. They were having a good time, though.
(The Songs with Abby at LaMella)
Karaoke at the Sopranos Bar (I don't know the name, but they filmed parts of the show there) was excellent:
(Duncan, Arnold & Lee)
(Duncan, Lee, Me, Kriston Sadlon, & Abby)
And...there was snow pong!
The visit was complete with: Christmas Eve service (in their boots because of the snow), a lot of relaxing by the fire, many traditions, and a visit to the acquarium. Unfortunately the Northern Wrights (Duncan's Uncle Steve, Aunt Joyce, and their kids Genny & Alex) couldn't make it because of the snow. We hope to see them another time. 
Another nice Christmas present was that Ginger (Duncan's Grandma), who has been in the hospital, was much better! They visited twice and it was great to see her and that she is improving.
