Christmas 2019

It seems like yesterday that it was September and we were planning my family’s visit for Christmas. And now they’ve left, and the house is so quiet. As my sister said goodbye she commented on how when you have company the house expands and then after they’ve left it goes back to how it was. So true. It’s just the three of us now. Michael and Finn are playing the game Rat-A-Tat-Cat, the hit present from Auntie Heidi, and the game we have played at nauseam for four days. I’ve put away the decorations, and folded some laundry, and life goes on. The big question is now that we’ve eaten all the leftovers, what are we having for dinner tonight?

Our visit was all about eating, playing games, doing the Globe and Mail 500 word crossword together, and going for walks in the beauty that surrounds us. And a trip to Anita’s Bread and Coffee for the best croissants and pastries.

I am so grateful for my family. They adore Finn, and bring him so much joy. And he feels the same about them. It’s hard for them to be so far away, but our time together is all that more precious. As they left, Finn curled up on the couch and with tears, he said, “ Momma, I wish they all lived closer. And next time they need to stay for nine days.” Hugging him close, I just let him cry, and I told him that my heart hurts just as much as his, but that the best part is that they will be back to visit soon.

I didn’t really take that many photos this Christmas, but here are a few from our visit, and our Christmas week. Even though our family isn’t here, we have such a lovely community of friends, and for that I am forever grateful.