Different Christmas

For many years I was away at Christmas in Lachute and visiting Kathi in Winnipeg and Vancouver. When my mom and I were alone in later years she would come to Ottawa to be with me.

When I was away at Christmas I missed being at my own parish church of St. John‘s. Now I am here.

My own traditions are unfolding. I made the famous stuffing and Noel Shrimp Bake. My Christmas cards and letters have all been sent. I have been receiving many in the mail from friends near and far. Christmas decorations are being enjoyed. Recorded music and other seasonal programs are being enjoyed on my new PVR and TV. I have been listening to Christmas music in my car and in my basement and on my TV - the nice Galaxie channels - and on Youtube on my computer. I found some French language carols.

As for my social calendar it is full enough for me. I have attended some events and not attended others. The day of the Greenbelt Christmas party I was too busy. Did Abracadabra go instead of me? The Parish Council meet and eat event was cancelled - too many folks could not go.

Our old Wednesday morning group from St. John’s met for a service and breakfast. We talked about Christmas plans and as one friend said - it is all different now.

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My young neighbour too is having a different Christmas without her mom and dad. The animals in the house will provide entertainment - I am sure. Last weekend she was putting up her outside Christmas lights and decorations - a blown up Santa and snowman. She also has a very sweet pair of snow people sitting in a swing. Her mom and dad used to sit in a swing like that.