Christmas Reflections

I made this pillow for Nicholas' teacher and it certainly reflects my sentiments. We must always try to find joy - in whatever we do. When we first started planning Christmas - months ago, the plan was to go to Toronto.... we were all very excited - looking forward to surrounding ourselves with family. Unfortunately our visa renewals didn't come in time and we weren't able to go - we were ALL very disappointed. But we invited friends to join us for Christmas dinner, had friends drop by for breakfast - followed by us dropping in on other friends for more breakfast!!, talked with family on the phone and enjoyed each others company and the balmy NC weather.

The days leading up the Christmas were particularly hectic. Since Jan was on vacation from work we both went to see Nicholas in his class play on Native Americans - very cute. Nicholas played the role of a Spaniard trying to initiate trade agreements with the Native Americans. Spears and bows and arrows were involved making for a very entertaining 1/2 hour!!

Sunday evening took us to Tasha's piano recital. It was wonderful. There were about 10 children participating - from the very beginner to the more accomplished. Tasha played "Jingle Bells" - a duet with her teacher (I am going to attempt to insert it into the blog!); "Christmas Eve Walz"; "Turkish March" by Mozart - a hugely difficult piece she has been working on for a year!! ; and as her finale "Believe" from the movie Polar Express.

Christmas Eve included much baking, wrapping and getting ready for Christmas Eve mass and Christmas Pageant. Nicholas (narrator) and Katrina (Mary)participated in the Christmas pageant and Tasha played piano (which she does regularly for the Episcopalian church on Sundays). It was a beautiful production followed by a wonderful service. Tasha played beautifully and Nicholas and Katrina performed well - we were so proud.

And so - while we weren't able to be with family in Toronto we were blessed with much joy this season - and look forward to the next time....

All about Christmas Day tomorrow! Love to all.

Christmas countdown

Finally, the Christmas lights are up outside - y'all know how much fun that was don't you!!?? I even put garland all around the porch railings and since the sun was still out and all the children were home I thought to myself.... this could be the year that we send photo Christmas cards again (it's been 6-7 years!). Posted are a couple that we didn't pick.. ... you'll have to wait to see the one we did - really... I PROMISE ... Jan's picking them up from Sam's tomorrow and I'll have them in the mail by Friday - I've even started writing the letter -LOL.

It's been a busy weekend - Tasha's swam in a high school meet - they did really well - as did she. She swam her first 200 metre IM (individual medley - freestyle, breaststroke, backstroke and butterfly) and was thrilled with her time. So far it's been a successful season for them. Right now (thankfully) Nicholas and Katrina are not participating in any activities - we are enjoying the break as football was a HUGE part of our lives during the fall as were play practices! Basketball is around the corner...

Well back to decorating.... talk with you soon.