Christmas

Christmas kills me. I mean, it exhausts me. I'm still recovering from December's harried pace. From hampers for sponsored families, dealing with the mentally ill, addicted and homeless at Christmas, Christmas meals, fundraising, Christmas services, music, more fundraising, staff issues ..... my November and December are just ruthless to the age and infirm (meaning me!).

Too many times over the Chrismas season I ask, "Is it ever going to end?" and it does. I fall like a limp dishrag, used far too many times to wipe up dog prints from the floor, to the chaise lounge in the living room, put the back of my hand to my forehead and exhale, "O my!"

Yes, I'm so dramatic! No, I don't really do that, but I certainly feel like it.

Christmas - I must do better next year. I must be better organized. I must have all my presents bought and wrapped before kettles start. I must, I must....

Maybe I will, maybe I won't.

Well, in the midst of all of that we were able to get to the Rotary Christmas party, a nice chance to dress up and mingle with people who all have homes to live in, and let the kids have a real fun time watching the magician perform and receiving a present from Santa.

We also got a chance to see the Christmas concert at the boys school. Well, Evan, a wise man in the school nativity scene, couldn't keep still. He will be forever remembered as the "dancing king." The whole auditorium giggled while he did a little shoulder shake, eye roll and snappy finger dance beat. It was hilarious, and we're sorry we didn't bring the video camera. Here they are in the lobby of the golf club where we had the party. You can see the mischief in Evan's eyes.

It is such a blessing to have my mom here this Christmas. My brother Ron is with us now as well, it was a blessing to be together for Christmas - more family to celebrate with.

Next week Sheena comes home. I can't wait. I'll take lots of pics that day and then I'll post them for everyone to see. I can't wait to kiss those boys and cuddle that little baby girl.

I'm off with my neighbour Mary to dinner and to see the movie "The Queen." Haven't been out with a girlfriend in a long, long time. I really get on well with Mary, we're a lot alike. It's nice to sit with a girlfriend and chat. Although I miss my vitamin "D" and "L" back in Ontario. Life will never be complete until we're able to sit down and have a cuppa together again.

Life is too short. Life is too difficult. Let's not waste it. Enjoy the holidays.

grace...kathie