december was

christmas morning

christmas eve

Before heading out to the Christmas Eve service at our church tonight we followed the tradition of opening one gift each. Well, rather, the boys did. I had wisely bought two toy trains, James and Gordon, to add to the Henry train they already have ... so that they could each have one plus an extra. Less fighting, less drama: ideal. They were thrilled to be able to rip into a package, Walter even more than Henry, and I must say I did good as they loved, loved their wee blue and red trains. Little do they know what's happening tomorrow!!

dashing through the snow

One of my very favorite things about this town are the yearly Christmas lights put up throughout Memorial Park all through December ... I have come to look forward to them so much each year. Magical. A few dozen standing light figures and shapes are placed all over the small park and in the early dark prairie nights it looks beautiful, either from a distance or walking through on your way to the downtown. Tonight we took the boys for their first sleigh ride, around and around the cenotaph or up and down the snowy paths. They were both serious in their enjoyment but we knew we were doing well for whenever we stopped for a break Henry would pipe up immediately "One more time!". Our snow-suited boys sure looked cute and for a half an hour wintery excursion we sure had fun. Then home for a hot bath and a long night's sleep ... and a movie and cookie treats for Mum and Dad. Perfect.

time to bring out the cookies

Sam's now on holidays!!! (we're so happy)

for 4 hours: just the girls

Last night Carol and I threw a Cookies and Eggnog party for just the girls ... no husbands, no children, no curfew. Everyone held their crantinis high as we toasted to good friends and Christmas cheer and then feasted on a plentiful spread of cookies and appetizers. Yum and yummm. I didn't take as many photos as I should have or would have liked to but instead enjoyed my seat in the corner, surrounded by good friends, good food, and much laughter. I end this year with a great sense of thankfulness for the friends I've made here, women who love me and love my boys and are always willing to help. Women I am comfortable with and who Henry knows by name and Walter crawls to for snuggles. I have craved this kind of community for so long and so in now seeing the fulfillment of that wish I am just so very thankful.

And I know next year's going to be alot of fun!

someone discovered he really likes to colour!

o christmas tree, o christmas tree