More holidays.

Boxing day was a bigger event than Christmas with many more family present. The house was full of happy sounds and playing children from top to bottom. Christmas music played softly while we did all things Christmas. It was laid back and mellow.

Outside the sun shone bright and it was plenty warm to take the kids for a tractor ride around (and around and around and around) the yard to say hi all the miniature horses in their paddocks.  We had another green Christmas with the temperature well above any chance of freezing. I thought I'd post this picture that was taken early last week when it did snow.

 Happy Holidays to all!

-grampa dan

A Christmas joust

I've heard of some family gatherings that are memorable for their down and out fights. It's never been that way at our house until this morning... 

We had saved the empty wrapping paper tubes last night and this morning as soon as we gathered in the living room a ferocious 'fight' broke out. There was no clear winner in the jousting but it continued until the cardboard tubes were in tatters and we were all doubled over in laughter. It might just become a tradition! :)

The rest of the day was quiet by comparison, with plenty of good food and relaxation. Here's a cool shot of all the action from the backyard as I walked the dogs.

Tomorrow our Christmas celebrations continue with the arrival of extended family by the carload.

It's going to be fun!

-grampa dan

Now its Christmas!

Christmas at our house doesn't begin to really happen until after the last December birthday. This year, today was that day. 

It was a busy day with last minute shopping for the Christmas feast, wrapping presents and of course putting up our Christmas tree. As per our family tradition only hand made ornaments hang on the tree, each one with a special memory attached. As we decorated we reminisced about these memories and special people in our lives.

Special recipies were dug our of their hiding places to prepare dishes reserved for such an occasion. The turkey too was stuffed full of dressing and popped into the oven this afternoon. It's now cooling a little on the counter top before I begin the carving, Our Christmas is a little different than most in the interest of keeping it simple and relaxed while we have a few days with family. Tonight as I relax for a few minutes before the last Christmas preparations I can smell the fresh roasted turkey. I sneaked into the place the reshly baked cookies are hidden. I am remembering with fondness Christmas past, remembering all those we enjoyed them with and look forward to another gathering of family over the next few days. We are truly blessed beyond words and I am grateful.

I wish all who read this blog a blessed season of fun, family and friendship as you celebrate in your special ways. 

Merry Christmas to all!

-grampa dan