It’s the most … time of the year. Fill in the blank. Joyful? Stressful? Busy? Cold? Depressing? Exciting?

I have read blog posts lamenting the sad passing of Christmas festivities. I can understand that. I too feel a touch of sadness; such a complex build-up to a holiday too quickly over. This Christmas was a good one, in my sprawling family (we have been known to put the ‘fun’ in dysfunctional). We got together a few times and everyone got along – a nice change.

The best holiday treat was seeing my nephews who came up from Arizona for a short visit with Grandma and Grandpa. We had a big family get-together on Friday, then on Saturday, my brother and I took them downtown. We roamed the streets and witnessed a cross-section of urban life that undoubtedly made them appreciate the comforts of small-town life in a sunny state. A small shopping spree allowed them to spend the Canadian dollars they received as Christmas gifts.

The worst holiday experience – less for me than some friends and colleagues – was the ice storm, which left people without power for between 4 hours and 4 days. I was grateful to fall into the former category and I commiserated with those in the latter (among them, my boss and a few folks from my church). Here are a few photos – to give you an idea. Some taken at my aunt and uncle’s home on Christmas day. Some taken on a walk around my condo complex on Boxing day.

It’s Monday the 30^th and they fly home today. I came in to work so that I could take the 31^st off. As you would imagine, it’s pretty quiet – about 10% of the staff are in. I read a blog post today by a very diligent man of strong good character who writes about his new year’s plans (read more here http://boyslumber.wordpress.com/2013/12/29/2014-resolutions-dec-29/) but I’m not ready to go there in my blogging life. I will end this year and begin next year with a small group of close friends and sisters in Christ – talking, laughing, eating, praying and watching DVD’s. Celebrating life and love. Reminiscing and looking ahead. Grateful for life and faith and friendship. A blessed and joyful New Year to you all, dear friends!