Christmas Day 2010

What a beautiful Christmas Day in Terrace, B.C. The snow that fell on Christmas Eve had draped the mountain cedars with white powder, and everything looked so incredible. Everyone enjoyed a lazy morning and even the twins slept in - a true Christmas day first. I think it might have had something to do with their knowledge that Santa had already come for them this year, but I have to admit it was nice to have that extra time on the pillow. We exchanged gifts with Grandma, and the children enjoyed a couple of gifts as well. New mittens and hat from Grandma for the twins. Ken received a nice framed picture of his mother and grandmother, and I was given a beautiful crystal cross necklace with the Lord's prayer inscribed in the middle within this tiny key hole that acts as a magnifier.

We enjoyed Skyping with Mimi and Papa and talking to Memaw over the phone. I surely miss hosting Christmas as I always do, but I know it is even more difficult for our loved ones back home. Just know that we love and miss you, and will be home again before you know it. We were soon off to the Williams' home to spend the day. Smiles and excitement greeted us at the door, and the house was bustling with children enjoying their Christmas goodies. Uncle Rick had the wood stove barrelling out the heat for me (I seem to be the only one that freezes around here, and he is gracious enough to humor me, including the crackling fire image displayed on the flat screen TV). Kathy had prepared a wonderful brunch including pecan french toast, ham and cheese quiche, fresh fruit, and bacon. The kids could hardly wait to open their gifts, so we tore apart the packages after the dishes were cleared. Ken and I were overwhelmed by the kindness of the family - everything from soft fleece blankets to Mr. Big candy bars, to a hockey stick for Daddy to join in with the kids. The twins were also lavished with gifts, and we enjoyed watching the family open their Kentucky presents. I was successful in finding Big Blue gear for just about every family member, and it was enjoyable to see Big Blue being paraded around the house.

The afternoon was calm as we enjoyed good coffee and even better conversation. Ken and I shared pictures of our summer on the lake, the trip to Florida, and other KY favorites. I think Kathy would move down with us if she could. She loves the ideas of powerful thunderstorms and summers that linger into October. We all gathered around the table for a traditional Christmas dinner, including a turkey that had been raised on the farm since May. Poor bird, his fate was sealed from the beginning. Images from the movie "Son in Law" danced in my head as I imagined what it was like to try and capture that animal and seal his doom. But hey, he tasted great! :)

We left the farm around 7 pm and headed to the Lavoie family Christmas over at Aunt Betty's. There, we were greeted by around 20 new people (well, new to me). Lots of little children again, and the twins were off to play downstairs while Ken and I visited with relatives. His dad is one of 10 children, so you can imagine the size of their extended family.

We wrapped up Christmas 2010 with a little down time at Mom's house, complete with the twins stealing a few goodies that lay in open access on the coffee table. Gabriel told Grandma he loved staying here, and it was obvious the Christmas card they signed and gave her was a keeper. Her comment that this was the best Christmas in some 17 years warmed my heart and I am so thankful we were able to make this trip a reality. Please share through comments about your own Christmas day so we can share in your memories as well. It seems some people have been having trouble posting, so I have adjusted some settings which should make it easier to respond.

We are once again hurrying off to the farm for dinner, so I will post Christmas Day pictures either later tonight or in the morning.

With love,
Tiffaney and family