What a wonderful Christmas gift, @dwixer: Two months leave!
Your story is moving, sensitive, intimate. You bring us into this family quickly and show the affection in small touches. For example, her mother calls Deborah 'Deby', the only one in the family who uses this familiar name. The scene you describe at the homecoming is vivid.
I enjoyed this picnic story that takes place at the beach when it's Christmas!
Nice writing my friend.