Christmas Day

Getting ready for Santa...this was a bit stressful for Julia. She was afraid that Santa was going to pass her by. Even though we've been in Sarnia for every one of her Christmases, since the tree that usually was in the basement was now replaced by a smaller one and put upstairs, she's was sure there would be some confusion. As well, there was no fireplace for her stocking. Everything was topsy-turvy this year.

Hence the sign...I wish it said "Santa stop here, please.

All her efforts paid off - Santa found us.

Here's the reply to the note Julia left for him. Julia wanted to leave a gift for Santa this year, and decided on the snow globe you see on the table. Santa was most appreciative, but said she should keep it and put it out next year along with the little sign so he'd be sure to find her.

Julia and her puppies on their new cozy dog bed -- this was her number one request. New members of the pet family - Honey, the little pup in the middle (she's my favourite), and Bella the white and grey puppy.

Here they all are in action...Please don't call the SPCA -- despite how it looks (poor Spots on the left) no puppies were hurt during the production of this video.

Noreen and Julia enjoy a game of Operation -- lots of new ailment now - very different from the version we had as kids. Some bathroom humour and some technology injuries (cell phone finger)

Another nostalgic gift -- I gave Carmel these two DVDs - The Homecoming and The House without a Christmas Tree - two made-for-TB movies we loved as kids, both circa 1970s--anyone else of a certain age remember these? They brought Carmel to tears.

Julia poses in front of our family's 15 stockings.

Dad was pleased to get this tree of jams - all his favourites.

Julia and I enjoy a snuggle buggle.

It was a windy and rainy Christmas Day and we were worried that Mom wouldn't be up to facing the elements, but she came to life when she got to Carmel's. I love this picture; she really looks like herself, like the mom we know and love. A bonus to see her smile for this photo with the grandkids. It is so precious.

Father and son.

This one I think is the best photo of the whole day.

Nana and her girlies.

A thoughtful moment with Noreen.

My grown-up neices/god daughters, all pretty in purple.

The cousins before they began the gift exchange.

Christmas wouldn't be complete without the Quality Street games. First guessing how many were in the tin (77 this year - Julia and Papa were tied for being the closest), and a new tradition started last year by Julia - creating a picture with the candies.

This year's creation - a Southampton sunset - only 6 months until we see the real thing.A very special treat this year was a gift from Katie -- she compiled family photos and videos to make a DVD - it was wonderful to watch. I'm so proud of her -- all her work -a true labour of love to make such a gift that will be treasured. The home videos of the future I guess will go this way. Thank goodness we have Katie and Owen, our IT whiz kids to navigate this future for us.

Just another one of our many blessings. Hope you all had a wonderful day with your families.