Merry Christmas from Mississauga

Zach, Gramma and Andrea (and Indiana Jones in the background if you look hard enough) just starting to open their presents on Christmas morning at Larisa Grove in Mississauga, December 25, 2014.

The wonderful thing about hosting friends and family is not having to travel, and putting on one’s very best for people we care about, and even a few who just need a place to be on Christmas. The other side of that, of course, is that Bob and I work like galley servants for several days leading up to, and through Boxing Day. You’re always cooking, cleaning, washing dishes, taking something out, putting something away, and also trying to make it look effortless while engaging in chatter with the guests. Other than all that, it’s a piece of cake!

Our favourite FM station, Classical FM 96.3 in Toronto (you can click the link to get it on the Internet live in Guyana and the USA) plays non-stop, commercial-free music all of Christmas Day every year, as well as an annual all-request Valentine’s Day music lineup.

Christmas Eve feast

Zach and Nick came over on Christmas Eve for dinner: a seafood medley Mediterranean-style, along with salad and a host of appetizers, including bagels and lox with cream cheese, and desserts. This morning, Zach came back for breakfast: ham and eggs and lots of other good stuff. Throughout the day, we are opening our presents as our guests arrive.

If you’re on the web site distribution list, add your comments about where you are, who you’re with and what you are doing. It’s is a blustery and cool winter morning, without snow, in Ontario. We had high winds and some pouring rain last night. Global warming is very real. It should be cold and snowy here.

Warm wishes from the whole family: me, Bob, Obi-Wan and Bebe plus Mom, Zach and Nick to one and all. After the Christmas festivities, we are free to visit, and welcome visitors ourselves. See you…