After 28 years of having the Annual Christmas Party at Patrick's house (much to Noreen's chagrin those couple of years when it rained and we all tracked mud all over the house), this year we decided to host the party at the Heartwood World Headquarters. 

  In celebration of the new light rail that began running in mid-November, we all met at the shop at 5:30 and walked down to the Woodlawn station. 



  The sunset was beautiful, and really showed off our extensive equipment in a flattering light. 



John and Lori lead the way, followed closely by Craig and Rene. 



  We rented a small restaurant on Tryon St. in Uptown Charlotte.  It was just the right size for our extended family!



   Much merriment was made prior to the dinner buffet being served.  Here, Patrick regales Cindy and her husband Cliff with the story of how he gave birth to the greatest little tree service in the world.



   After Dinner, we handed out the secret Santa gifts.  Pete received a musky cologne from Azael. Do you know what rhymes with cologne? ..... Alone.



Patrick took this picture of Cristino and Stephan.  Right after taking it, he informed me that there was some kind of weird shadow on it (I didn't have the heart to tell him it was his finger over the flash).



  We all boarded the light rail and headed back down south to the shop, where oysters and beer and firelogs and rope swings and bucket truck rides awaited. 

                    

   This is looking from the end of the yard, back up towards the street.  You can see the boom truck makes a good tie in spot for a rope swing. 

              

  Speaking of firelogs, this was one of Jeff's best yet.  He started out with a 1,200 lb piece of Oak stump, and carved out the ventilation holes.   The rest we chalk up to combustion.



Inside the office (where it's warm), Andre regales Sean and his girlfriend about how he is "all about gettin' them dollars" and stuff. 



  Stephan took time out of his busy schedule to pose with his girlfriend Carmen.  And he wants his mom to know he is not proposing.  Yet.



Seta sat back and took it all in, island style. 



Back outside at the party, those who have no fear of heights took rides in our 75 foot bucket truck.  The wind at 75 feet, at night, in December, is something to experience.

   We hope you all have a wonderful Holiday Season and a Happy New Year!