MY 20 FAVOURITE THINGS OF 2014

With a New Year ringing in tonight, rather than list goals for 2015, I wanted to reflect on 2014 and the blessings it brought to my life.

#20- Writing this blog and writing and writing anything and everything.

#19 Walking to and from work in all kinds of weather. My continued found exercise to tone the body.

#18 Trips to Farmer's Markets and Local Wineries to support the local economy.

#17 Day trips to Collingwood, Wasaga Beach and Port Perry.

#16 Watching new movies and watching over and over favourite movies like Love Actually at Christmas.

#15 Spending the Fall updating the last 20 years of stamp collecting to determine if I have some "little gems".

#14 Jaunts by car, walking or out the window of taking photographs of everything, everyone and anything wherever I go.

#13 The Pandas at the Toronto Zoo.

#12 A day at Pioneer Village. A Santa train ride in Uxbridge.

#11 Dinners or lunches out, takeout, eating at someone else's home. Fun to try different cooking.

#10 Research- genealogy, history, clinical.

#9 Reading some good books. Supporting Canadian literature when I could. Orenda was one of them. Supporting world literature- Ken Follett's trilogy started. Will finish in 2015. Reading US Conductors the 2104 Giller Prize winner.

#8 Celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, work promotions, new businesses.

#7 Attending the special event October 28th at the Royal Ontario Museum celebrating 100 years of the Faculty of Social Work at the University of Toronto and feeling good that I was a part of its history.

#6 Work and the ability to contribute to the well being of patients, families and staff.

#5 Compiling the special Christmas project to give to family about our ancestors serving in the First World War.

#4 A reason to get up in the morning. The opportunity to see the sun rise and see the sun set every day.

#3 Remember to pray- thanking the Lord for the day, for special people I know needing some prayer and to think about my blessings!

#2 My health and the ability to try to make healthy daily options to maintain it but remembering chocolate is a food group.

#1 The most important favourite thing about 2014 is my family- husband, children, grandchildren. Some would say their health is most important but without family facing any health crisis would be difficult. Family keep me focused and give such social fun. Extended family and friends that are like family. Knowing I can connect in various ways every day with a variety of people at home, at work and in my community keep me going. Remembering to be my best friend and liking myself-warts and all.

So what are your favourite things about 2014. What will this list be next year at this time?

Happy New Year! Bonne Annee! Buon Anno!

LIFE IS LIKE A TRAIN RIDE

Taking a train ride represents a segment of life. Makes you stay on track. Each passenger has a seat in a car. You go along for the ride. The scenery changes as you move along. Each season brings a different view. There are slow trains, fast trains, subway trains and little trains at amusement parks that go round and round. You can be let off at a distant destination or ride it back to the point where you started. Trains connect us to our history especially Canadians. In the late 1800s the railroad united this country from coast to coast. If wanted a train ride would take you to many provinces. There is a conductor who steers the train. Personnel make sure you have paid your ticket. Trains are a major transportation mode world wide. There is a rhythm to the clickety clack sound the train makes. There could be people waving to you in the train from outside along the route. People of all ages enjoy a train ride. There are sleeper cars and dining cars. Short rides or long ones- your choice! How is your train ride of life?

REMEMBERING WORLD WAR ONE FAMILY MEMBERS-A SPECIAL FAMILY PROJECT

Now that family members have received the "gift" given at Christmas, I want to write about the process reaching it. Last August when World War One was being commemorated- the 100th anniversary of its commencement, I found some Vimy Ridge pins I had bought and thought it would be nice to have some more and give them to my grandchildren. Simultaneously, the Ontario Genealogical Society had a new interest group- descendants of World War One soldiers. It was necessary to provide documentation of how I was related to my ancestor. Even had to order the long form of my birth certificate to prove my relationship to my mother. It took over a month to get my certificate from them and to join that special group. Initially I thought I would copy  the OGS certificate for my children. Another thought occurred to me - there were many family members related to my ancestor too. So I ordered  over 2 dozen Vimy Ridge pins. Devising the certificate layout as well as deciding on the appropriate paper took some revisions. Making a list of relevant family groups and the process was in play. Ernest Adolphus Ellis served in the Canadian Expeditionary Force. He signed up in 1915, serving his country and was a hero at the Canadian Battle at Vimy Ridge- April 1917. I had obtained his war records in 1988 from the National Defence Office of Canada as part of my family history research. Thus the reason to include the Vimy Ridge pins to those family members related to him. The certificates which included grandchildren like myself, great grandchildren and great-great- grandchildren were done. To have information to go with the certificates, I wrote a short article to submit to the Durham Genealogical Society as well as include copies with the gifts.  Then further thoughts occurred to me- what about my step grandfather- Ellerington Park. Discreetly asking my brother Reed through an email- what did he know about his war efforts. Not much. He had some nice pictures though and scanned sending them to me which I was able to print for myself. So some Internet research brought some information. However the War records for Britain are managed by Ancestry.ca  would cost money. I did find a war medal card I could use for free online. I did not know he had received any medals.  Being persistent, I kept checking back to the site and fortunately on  the Remembrance Day weekend the site became free and I was able to download his war records. Used one full cartridge of black ink as the documents had been scanned with black edges!! Cut off the edges so I could make copies for a few family members I thought may be interested. If others want that information too, they could ask the relevant family member for it that received the copies. Then another thought- my husband Adolph lost a grandfather in World War One. So I emailed one of his Italian cousins for information. He gave me his father's email who provided a couple of Italian links that had information about fallen soldiers or in Italian called Soldati Caduti. Adolph's grandfather Antonio Di Mambro had died one week before the end of the war in 1918. I did try to find information on him but  only found information about his regiment. His brother Raffele was on the list of the Fallen soldiers but I could not find Antonio's name. Adolph's great grandmother lost two sons in the war. His father really did not know his Dad. His Nonna Maria was a widow in her early twenties with three young children. What was funny about the Italian research was the fact that the soldiers actually had those handle bar moustaches often characterized in skits or cartoons about the Italians in the war. I always thought it was just a joke but apparently not!!  So made those certificates for my family members. I have been researching the World War One site in the National Archives for any uncles or other related Canadian family members to no avail- yet. So some family members received more than one certificate depending on their connections to the War.  So what did I accomplish- well it was fun and enjoyable to discover how my clan has connections with a Canadian, a Scotsman and an Italian that served in an International event that is being remembered today. So any time a clip is shown about the war, we should all take a closer look as it could be one of our family.  It was also very poignant to know that those men served their countries and their efforts have contributed to the lives we have today. To remember them occasionally and honour their efforts made for us can make us proud to have them in our family histories. Letting our children and grandchildren know about them is important too. Thus I hoped my small contribution towards it by having those certificates to put in their albums would be a visual reminder. Family history research is a passion for me in case you did not know!!

BOXING DAY 2014

December 26 is Boxing Day in Canada and for most of us a Statutory Holiday. Most stores have their boxing day sales- 50% off Christmas merchandise even though many sales start mid-December to attract customers. It helps with the bottom line. Venturing out yesterday, I only went to Shoppers Drug Mart for some needed food items like milk and eggs as well as use my emailed coupon to get 20 times the points for spending over $75.00. They had enough of Christmas items like tags, Christmas crackers, some paper and some misc things to buy for next Christmas. Many new immigrants especially those from Russian were buying the chocolates and cookies in droves as they celebrate their Santa on New Year's Eve. In the old Soviet Union, they could not have Christmas Day so it was more of a Christmas for them than New Year's Eve with gifts and Santa giving to the children. There are others of course, like our Ukrainian-Canadians that celebrate January 6th who can take advantage of the Boxing Day sales for sure. In my youth I would venture to a big mall that had an Eaton's and Simpsons- two iconic Canadian stores that no longer exist- and be with hordes and crowds shopping for the same items. Usually trying to buy discount tree ornaments as they would be needed. Since I have a house full of Christmas stuff and enough ornaments to decorate several trees with varied themes, no longer looking for those ornaments now. I have a favourite store where I will find the 2-3 boxes of discount cards for next Christmas in a few days or even next week.
So why is it called Boxing Day. As some of the theories go, in old England maybe Middle Ages or 17th century, the servants were needed Christmas Day to serve their masters but given December 26th as a day off to be with family and were presented with gift boxes. Sometimes it would be the leftovers from the Christmas dinner! Or the churches that collected donations in boxes over the Christmas season would give them to the needy on December 26th.
In the present, there are some bargains with large ticket items. But for many people with some Christmas gift cards or cash, not able to wait very long to spend them shopping is the needed activity. It used to be a big day of returns of unwanted Christmas gifts. Although now many stores delay that process to later in the week, so real shoppers can shop and are not stuck behind someone trying to return an item without a bill and a big argument. That's why gift receipts are always helpful with gifts. I do keep all the bills in one spot in case a return may be needed.
For me, Boxing Day was quiet after my early morning quick shop- tidying of Christmas dishes, eating leftovers as well as the proverbial turkey soup- made from the bones simmering for the day and some little turkey bits-  and a plateful of veggies for dinner and actually several little cat naps during the day while watching some movies- Boxing Day was enjoyable. I had started the day to be more ambitious with cleaning up some areas of the house but decided to conserve my energy and enjoy a day of quiet! Stopping and enjoying the lights from the tree while sitting in my family room knitting a few rows of one my winter projects brought some reflections. Quiet brings memories to the forefront. With all the hustle and bustle of the season, nice not to be so busy and driving around to stores. Besides returning to work in a few days, brings the realization that work will happen with its normal routines, often boring! So being at home in the quiet of my home enjoying a paid day!

Oh Boxing Day!  Making new traditions while enjoying the old ones! How did your day go? Was it quiet or more family visiting? Do you ski or snow board so wanted to get to the slopes for winter fun?

CHRISTMAS DAY 2014

Well it is finally here- Christmas. Santa arrived for all the little children so the stockings are slowly being emptied across the country. Presents are opened, phone calls made to loved ones near and far. Breakfast made or lunches started for those that have their big meals at noon. Food preparation- making sure the turkey is being thawed if not a fresh one.  Time to play with the new toys or start to read the new book or to try on that new top. Time to feel blessed to be near family. Missing family that is not nearby. Hoping my family enjoyed my special project of making certificates to honour family members that fought in World War One. Giving the Vimy Ridge pins to family members who were related to our Ernie Ellis who received medals for his efforts there in 1917. Giving a toast to our Armed Forces members who are serving far from home this Christmas. Giving a toast to each other for being here and together another Christmas. How is your Christmas going? Hope you are enjoying the day together!!

NANA SAYS MOMS MAKE THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS HAPPEN

Moms make the magic of Christmas happen for their children. Yes Dads help too with assembly and batteries of items. But face it Mothers start those lists months in advance. Decorate the house. Purchase and wrap those gifts. Address the majority of the cards. Modern Moms get those wonderful picture Christmas cards with their kids to send to grateful relatives and friends-love them. Not just from my kids but others as well. Make sure all the events are on schedule. Clean the house. Have lots of treats and good food in the house for all. And find time to look good and get their nails done! So to all the mothers that carry on the traditions of their mothers and grandmothers- have a Merry Christmas! Know that your work and effort will shine in the eyes of your family big and small. A toast to those magicians- otherwise known as Mom or Mommy to the littlest ones!

A COUNTDOWN TO A CANADIAN CHRISTMAS- 1 DAY TO GO

Many people are out doing last minute shopping. Picking up one more thing for the stockings or fresh veggies or bread. A good time not to be on the road. Italian-Canadians will be having their Christmas Eve Seafood dinner- the Feast of the 7 Fishes. Adolph and I will be on our own so will have lobster with some fresh pasta using up the seafood sauce from the weekend dinner along with some asparagus and fennel! What dessert to have from all the goodies we have in the house!! The Christmas table is set. A go around the house will occur to tidy those little clutter corners to make things look nice or just nicer and cleaner. Amazing how those clutter piles keep occurring. My grandchildren enjoyed two days at our home while my daughter and hubbie worked before having time off  until the New Year. Loved hearing them sing along to the Children's Christmas CD with many of the favourite Christmas carols. One way to get some religion into them- through music that praises the baby Jesus! Bought some last minute lottery tickets! Did one load of laundry and hung the precious items to air dry. No more laundry until the weekend. I have the Giller Prize book- US Conductors- on the go. Pleasure to sit in the Family Room to read. Prepared my outside for the weather forecast of a bad wind. My son-in-law hammered some nails in the front fence where it had come loose a month ago.  I will be making some Christmas Eve phone calls to family out west and overseas. Christmas Day is always so busy and sometimes the lines are jammed. There is no snow today but may be flurries over night so hopefully Christmas morning will be white. My children will not be on the road very much. Just one couple tonight to go into the city- Toronto that is to be with family for Christmas Eve. My grandchildren will see their Nonna and Nonno along with their zio, zia and cugine! Plus they get their Christmas gifts from them!! Looking out the window, I have seen many Fed EX, Purolator and Canada Post trucks racing around delivering lots of last minute parcels. My sister's parcel arrived yesterday so the goodies were delivered to my girls in a timely fashion to be under the tree for Christmas morning. TV has lots of Christmas music and movies and the regular weekday programming. For me, I am actually enjoying the quiet today. It is good to have some time to hear and think my own thoughts. Having some time away from work was needed more than I realized. Being home at this time of year is so precious. Besides if there were a Code Orange I am 5 minutes by car to get to work. The turkey is starting to thaw. So Christmas morning preparations for the dinner will start before Adolph and I open our presents. I always seem to give away more presents than remain in my house under my tree. However there are three huge presents that take up lots of room to make it look fuller. Christmas day will be opening the stockings by the fireplace in most homes. Opening presents. Having a simple breakfast by the tree. Christmas dinner is Turkey with all the trimmings- bread stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, peas, carrots, broccoli, fennel, sweet potato, mushrooms, Italian sausage, dinner rolls with butter, and a beverage of choice- red or white wine, water, beer, milk for the children. Dessert- a chocolate yule log, cupcakes, gingerbread cookies, chocolates, mints, and whatever else can be found in the house or brought by my guests. Many of the items served are similar to the ones I ate as a little girl. Although Adolph does most of the cooking, Christmas dinner is mine to do. The good old fashioned Canadian way that my Mother taught me and hopefully my girls will continue one day. Christmas in Canada is celebrated from coast to coast to coast. Little variations in some meals but Canadians know how to have a good time and include others in the celebrations. Children from all cultures will get a toy if needed from those local toy and food drives that occur across this great land. So from our house to yours- Have the Merriest of Christmases! Happy Holidays to all!

HANDLING THE STRESS OF CHRISTMAS AND FAMILY TIMES

Christmas with all its magic and fun and good cheers can bring lots of family time. Family time together can bring up old issues and children fighting. "He got one more present than I did- that's not fair!!!" Cooking an amazing dinner then someone to turns his nose up at the food. How to keep the magic and peace and love in our hearts when others around us are not!!  Giving space to each other really helps. Try to find quiet moments in the day over the next few days. If children can have some outdoor time to get fresh air, well go for it. Even for oneself to be in fresh air enjoying the winter time may be helpful too. Having the grandchildren for two days and two sleepovers inside a house is a huge reminder of how long a day can be! Trying to keep the peace!!  Being together means tolerating all the personalities. Others have to tolerate mine too! Try to stay away from politics and touchy matters for Christmas day. I remember one Christmas dinner with my folks and the politics of the country that was discussed at every family dinner surfaced with my friends who were Christmas guests. Very annoying! So try to watch another Christmas movie together or play a board game or cards or something that makes the Christmas day special. Children will be noisy and excited. No more threat of Santa is watching you have to be good!! Taking time for those phone calls with loved ones. Maybe make them on Christmas Eve to be a head of the game. I find nothing more annoying than just as we sit down to dinner, the phone rings and need to take time to talk to a loved one. So if made earlier in the day or the day previously than there is real time to discuss something and be happy to talk. One Christmas a relative of my husband showed up and we tried to ask him to eat with us. We had to delay dinner by an hour so the food was not hot when we finally sat down to eat. So if you do show up at some one's house sit down to the meal if asked because they may have been ready to eat as you arrived!! Christmas talks can be short and sweet and to the point. If long conversations are needed, try a long chat in the New Year when there is so much less to do. Try to keep the focus that family together creates memories to last. Making them good and happy ones does take effort. Understanding that being together for long periods needs breaks. So retreating for a quick nap or playing on the computer or sitting outside for a cigar or cigarette and putting some spaces between each other are good things to consider. Knowing when one's level of patience is over really helps!!

A WEEKEND OF CANADIAN CHRISTMAS FUN

With Christmas events happening, time with family is dear. One large family dinner at my younger daughter's home with all the grandchildren. Homemade pasta with two different sauces- a meat sauce by Sonya and seafood sauce by Adolph along with veggies and chicken. Natasha brought cookies for the kids to decorate and a craft table was set up in the basement too. Lots of photos taken with some group shots. The typical Canadian event with eating and fun and dialogue. Presents delivered too to both homes. Corners in my house now look bare. Luckily there is little driving for us now. Two days of babysitting the grandchildren should be good. May head off to the library up the street for some children's craft time. Actually good to get children out of the house with some needed exercise as we all could go stir crazy!! So Monday is a day to reflect and regroup before the big day. Watching the frenzied traffic on Yonge Street the last two days with harried shoppers, it is comforting to be home with no last minute shopping to do. Adolph may head to a grocery store for some last minute fresh vegetables Christmas Eve. However looking in our full fridge, there is enough food for a small army!! Finishing a book sometimes or just watching a Christmas movie with a craft like crocheting in hand, this woman is enjoying the quiet of the season. Nothing like a comfortable spot on my love seat in the Family Room beside the Christmas tree this time of year. Yes a few days away from work helps with the mood too. How is your Christmas time going?

A COUNTDOWN TO A CANADIAN CHRISTMAS- 1 WEEK TO GO

Present wrapped and some delivered to work mates, the bank and the bag ready for the newspaper guy. Babysitting out of the way for the evening event for one daughter and husband. Adolph has bought the fish for the Sunday dinner at another daughter's house which will be the family quasi seafood/meat meal. The girls have some in law commitments so it will be a time for all of us to be together. More babysitting during the day on Monday and Tuesday so one daughter has no babysitting/day care fees those days. Located one community event- the library up the street from us has a free craft event so will take the grandchildren there for an hour or so. Two other grandsons may join us for a bit on Monday so maybe a craft or cup cake decorating session and of course when everyone gets too rowdy- sit down and watch a movie!! This is my last day at work before Christmas but will return the week between Christmas and New Year's for coverage of other Social Workers. Actually looking forward to the break to help out with the grandchildren but to be at home during the Christmas season helps with the enjoyment. Forgot to mention last week, but if anyone is able to be a blood donor- Canada Blood Services needs you. I gave my regular donation last week. So I feel with helping different community efforts like the toy drive, food bank and blood, it is the Canadian thing to do to help those around us as we enjoy our family times together. So with one week to go, cleaning, watching movies and grandchildren, helping the cook, and just trying to finish the last minute gift card buying for that one more gift for someone. Hope your preparations are going well!

LIFE IS LIKE A CANADIAN HOCKEY GAME

A hockey game is a Canadian tradition. Children-male and female start young. Learn to skate, learn skills and become efficient at stick handling. There are rules. So if you cross the line, you can get a penalty. Sometimes your slap shot lets you score and sometimes the goalie stops it. There are professional teams, young teams and old guys playing on a men's league for fun. Arenas are cold so warm clothing must be worn. Home towns like Toronto would love to see their team win the Stanley Cup. The Maple Leafs have not won since 1967!!! There are favourite players- some for their roughness and some for their overall demeanor of good hockey skills and being a nice guy- like Crosby, Gretsky and Howe and others that are liked- one of my all time favourites- Johnny Bauer. A hockey game has a start, a middle and an end. Played in periods with the clock counting down and not up! Moms and Dads across the country trek to the local rink, the next town's rink and sometimes across the world to see their children play. A pond, a rink in the backyard or the local one can find games ongoing!! Then there is street ball hockey year round. There is usually a referee to keep the players in line. So able to play or just watch- like life- how much does one want to be involved. Yes the colourful jerseys can give some a fashion sense too. So will you take the puck and find some sense to your life. One never knows where it may take a person until the little black thing is given a good whack!!

NANA SAYS IT'S THE SEASON FOR SCHOOL CONCERTS

Well actually my grand children's day care holiday concert was held the other day at 5 pm and today there will be the Kindergarten to Grade 1 concert at the school. The memories of my own elementary school Christmas concerts and my children's is brought to the present moment while watching my grandchildren perform. No real Christmas carols are sung but sometimes songs like Jingle Bells may be heard. Although there are probably more Christian and Jewish children in the school, the multicultural focus must prevail, even though it is the Christmas and Hanukkah season. I do encourage children to say Merry Christmas as I do say happy whatever the season may be for any other culture or faith. Like Holi on March 17 in the Hindu faith, what a fun day. Seeing children perform and having family members in the audience is the important consideration. Including everyone in the season is the Canadian way. Children singing together even if a little off key sometimes does not change. As I sit in the audience, I often wonder where did the time go. It seems just like yesterday it was my girls doing the performing. I think it is good for teachers to have children practice for an event. It keeps the focus on performing and probably helps with the hyper energy this time of year. I could not imagine what it is like to have children in class the week before the Christmas break. So a real structured activity does help immensely. This Nana and Granpa will enjoy the performance. When 3 of the 5 grandchildren have a part, how could we not??

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS COMPLETE THE SEASON

A stroll through a neighbourhood to look at the lights can be rewarding. Or a drive down a favourite street big or small take in the season. I remember as a little girl driving downtown with the folks, especially University Avenue in Toronto where the lights seemed magical. Now on some reality shows there are families that compete for the most decorated and choreographed to music. Quite a scene!! A couple of strings with some prelit Christmas trees by the door and prelit large candy canes complete my display. No competition at my house. I do love Christmas lights. How about you? 

DECEMBER AND CHRISTMAS BRING MEMORIES

I realized mid-way through my day yesterday that it was the 14th and not the 15th but left my post as it was. It is always good to check if someone actually read it which of course my cousin Roy did! Sundays can be busy days or days to slow down and putter and relax like they were intended. So being Monday and the real 15th, it brings the start to another work week. Yes 10 days to Christmas and 2 days to Hanukkah!! Some cultures and countries have different Christmas celebrations throughout the month of December. I wonder if there is one for today! I believe my Canadian tradition let's me wait for the day since the shopping is done! Work will bring what it brings. But usually patients and families are more generous this time of year so the chocolates and cookies start to arrive in abundance. "Thank you" is nice but the work is to service our patients so we are not doing anything out of the ordinary. Available 24/7 year round!!  It is tough being in hospital this time of the year for anything. So the best advice is to be careful out there!! Try to stay away if you can!! Yes too much over eating and over drinking is not good for one's health so pace yourself and enjoy! Sometimes in the middle of it all, come the memories of past Christmases. Nothing amazing, just ordinary. Family times with the good, the bad and the ugly but usually happy times. The things that mean the most so those traditions are carried on for this generation. What was the best Christmas? What was the saddest? Which Christmas dinner had the most people? Which had the least? Is there someone missing? A death around Christmas time? I remember the  Christmas I had my first child- a baby born the end of November so little in my arms with a picture by the tree. The fun of "playing Santa" and bringing the magic to Christmas that parents do for the next few years. Memories creep into our consciousness, don't they? Perhaps a huge time for reflection and honouring Christmas past as we celebrate the season of Christmas present! How are you doing with your memories?

MID DECEMBER HAS ITS JOYS TOO

December 15th- the middle of the busiest month of the year. But on a Sunday!! Sundays are for church and catching up with the week's events. For some last minute Christmas shopping and wrapping and other activities. With good weather, outdoor activities or just a walk or a walk with the dogs, December can be enjoyed. As long as it is not too cold and your face freezes with the wind chill if there is one. For those wanting to burn extra calories, walking in snow does the trick. Of course, more exercise can make one hungry!! Or putting on some music and sitting and perusing the newspapers or finishing a good book or just the book needing to be finished. With all the hoopla around, some quiet does bring reflection! Is it a time for you to remember others who are no longer with you? Is it a time to think about phoning- yes let someone hear a real voice and not just a facebook entry or email- that person you have missed? Amidst all the busyness that occurs with the festive season, stopping and taking a breath. De stressing in your own individual way may be necessary to avoid catching a bug and getting sick. Try to concentrate on what are the most important things you want to do after the tedious tasks are done! I feel relieved for example that my wrapping is done. Slowly the presents will leave the house. Although there is something pleasurable about looking at piles of wrapped gifts! Thinking about the anticipation of little children shaking boxes and wondering what is inside! However like many others, I wonder did I buy enough? Of course, I need to stop myself! The dilemma when presents are bought early! Time to buy more! The season brings renewed energy but can be exhausting too. So eating well, fluids and a good night's sleep- like the rest of the year is always good advice. There are still 10 days to Christmas so there really is lots of time to finish. One shop stop or even the wonderful modern online shopping! Even gift wrapped and sent to the recipient! So enjoy the quiet of the day or the quiet after some running around- your choice!! And if really exhausted-take an afternoon nap!

SNOW MEANS A WHITE CHRISTMAS FOR MOST CANADIANS

A white Christmas is a given for any Canadian kid. I remember the Christmas of 1961 that was brown and I was so disappointed. Playing in the snow, sledding and throwing snowballs. Now with more ski resorts to ski, snow board and some with toboggan runs there are lots of opportunities for outdoor fun. Cross country skiing has become more popular with many people was it can be done in more places, especially without big hills or mountains. The trouble with some Canadian winters is the snow can come and go. Like this week with the big dump in the GTA and other parts of Canada, it will melt and it will be brown again. I like the snow to stay on the fields and lawns but not the road or sidewalk. A little white just makes it pretty and clean!! We don't need rain after a snowfall because we just get wet. Look at the Maritimes on the East coast and then Vancouver on the West coast- lots of rain and some folks had flooding! Who needs flooding in winter! For the record, winter does not officially start for another week!! How is your "winter" going so far? Do you get out and enjoy the season? Or do you stay indoors to avoid the cold? Since having grandchildren, I find myself trying to embrace the outdoors again. Building a snowman or just walking around in it can be fun! So come on, let the big kid in you get out and enjoy!!

A COUNTDOWN TO A CANADIAN CHRISTMAS-2 WEEKS TO GO

As the weather has played havoc across the country this week, Christmas preparations continue. One concert cancelled due to weather and rescheduled for next week. Needing to shovel the driveway was some needed exercise. Relatives on both coasts are dealing with flooding along with snow. At least it looks like Christmas. For me, wrapping is coming along very slowly. Trying to do 3-6 each night so the mess in 1/2 of my bedroom will be reduced. Some cards via snail mail and a newsletter via email have arrived and are in my Stocking Christmas card holder by the family room. My Christmas tree is nicely decorated so am enjoying the lights while I eat dinner and watch the news. Some sad news- a sister of my Dad's passed away October 2nd. The family had not informed us until they received my Christmas card to her. Another good reason to keep in touch this time of year!  Next week will bring two grandchildren's concerts and some babysitting. Cleaning up my desk at work between cases as I will take some vacation days the week of Christmas to help with babysitting and well some Christmas crafts and baking with the grandchildren.

Lots of hands on items for them to have some fun. Not too sophisticated as children need unbreakable things and books to read.

With the CDs and one being a children's special in the CD player, there will be music and singing in the house.  I am always glad I do things so early in the season as the season is exhausting with all the hoopla and activities. Looking forward to knitting and crocheting by the Christmas tree once the wrapping is done. Oh yeah, the house could use a good cleaning as the dust bunnies are crying- clean me!!

Of course if there is time to visit quaint settings and stores, the lights and decorations are so beautiful. Wish I could return to St. Jacobs town as it like other little places across the country give such a Canadian look to everything. The snow makes the children laugh. The library up the street from my house has a hill. Yesterday while everyone was cursing the snow and the drive, one could hear children sledding down it- laughing with glee! Oh Christmas- two weeks to go!

LIFE IS LIKE A MARCHING BAND

Young or old or in between. Men and Women. Boys and girls. Distinct uniforms. An array of instruments depending on the band. Marching in all kinds of weather. Year round. Some members keep in step. While some march to their own drummer. Pleases the crowd gathered to watch. Rather be a participant than just an observer! Bands are universal- found all over the world! What kind of band would you be? Have you ever played in a band?

NANA SAYS WE TEACH CHILDREN BY EXAMPLE

Yes the actions we do teach more than talk. If we do not respect and treat others well then children do learn this behaviour. So demonstrating generous and loving behaviour speaks louder than words.  Christmas is a wonderful time of year to teach generosity and giving to others.  Include your children in the trip to the toy drive. Here in the GTA some of those toy drives are in local malls or community centres so go and make an outing. One is featured on TV and the drive is for the Salvation Army. Many police stations and fire halls are collecting food and toys- could be another trip with the kids. Is there a neighbour or family friend that could benefit from a homemade child's card and small gift like cookies or Olympic mitts. Teaching children to think of others without a huge cost is the true meaning of giving.Teach children the giving at Christmas includes children of other faiths. In the website for the Thornhill United Church ,for example, the community food, clothing and toy hampers were given to 115 households in the area. Many were not of the Christian faith but people in need. Perhaps there could be regular trips to the food bank at other times of the year to emphasize the need continues beyond the festive season. My mother used to invite different people each year to Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners. Sometimes someone going through a hard time. Is there someone that could be included that would be okay with the rest of the family? Children should not be made to feel guilty because they have more than others. Teach giving a hand up, not just a hand out! Let them know a good education, hard work and love of community should be available to all children.

CANADIAN CHILDREN LOVE GINGER BREAD HOUSES

Made from scratch or from a box with all the ingredients and instructions, a Ginger Bread House is a must for most Canadian Children. With the taste of ginger and lots of candies, it makes a nice table decoration that can be eaten over the Christmas season. When my children were little, my younger daughter won a big one in a school contest. It was fun to have! During a dinner/dance years ago at a hotel setting, the lobby had a walk in Ginger Bread House that was a thrill to little children visiting. I need to research how they came about! What is the Christmas meaning? Does anyone know how this tradition started?

SAFETY AND COURTESY DURING THE FESTIVE SEASON

Everyone can be in a hurry for the next couple of weeks. Last minute shopping and running around can make room for rushed thinking. Safety is paramount. So is courtesy! Remember if the stores are crowed to have more patience. Or go early to leave early! Safety in the home! Careful with hanging decorations and not leaving the Christmas tree lights on longer than needed. Never if you are leaving the house! Be aware of your own environment! Check and double check any tasks that could present a problem. If you can, stay home! And enjoy the season! The less cars on the road the better! Remember to thank all our Emergency services, Armed Forces and Public Service people. They keep on working throughout the holiday season!! What is your advice for safety? What do you do to keep your home as safe as possible?

A POSTCARD FROM THE UXBRIDGE SANTA TRAIN

A 1/2 day's outing to the sweet community of Uxbridge, north-east of Toronto. A train decorated with Christmas decorations hosts families with young children. The ride is an hour and goes from Uxbridge to Stouffville through the small community of Goodwood and back to Uxbridge. A clown makes balloons for the children, Santa visits and  a strumming guitar player sings Christmas carols with the group. Of course, we sang along!

A slow methodical time with the children and grandchildren on an old railroad line.

Making use of old train stations for modern fun teaches a little history to young people. As most people know the railroad united this country since the late 1800s. To take a nostalgic journey today was quaint and enjoyable. Besides being with my grandchildren made it worthwhile. The kids enjoyed their bag of goodies given by the conductor at the end of the ride. I am sure there are many family events throughout the country this time of year.

A COUNTDOWN TO A CANADIAN CHRISTMAS- 3 WEEKS TO GO

The house is decorated and the unused items shoved away in the closet out of sight. Monday night mailed the parcels to destinations across Canada- Leduc Alberta and West Kelowna and Victoria British Columbia. The over sized envelopes with the special family projects were weighed and mailed. Of course all the cards to Italy, United States and across Canada are on the way.  One work function on Tuesday at a Chinese/Western buffet restaurant with about 30 people. We all brought a $10.00 gift to have a mini gift exchange. A number was put on the gifts and each of us picked a number from the bag. Often it is called a Secret Santa exchange. The gifts are almost finished. I have made overall lists of the grandchildren gifts to ensure I have kept the purchases even for all. A shortlist of who needs one or two more things on their Christmas list. As always in this modern world, a last minute gift card can fill in the gap!! Some babysitting tonight to let one daughter and spouse attend a work Christmas event. Saturday to start to decorated the real Christmas tree Adolph bought for $20.00 last week that has been waiting in the garage. One year in the future I may buy an artificial one but not yet. I will be going with the daughters and families on the Santa train ride in Uxbridge this Sunday. Hoping to get some fun pictures with the grandchildren and scenery of the countryside. Of course sorting and wrapping will slowly and methodically be done over the next few days. A couple of online purchases are yet to arrive. Yes the Christmas CDs are in the CD player. Another time I may get one of those docking units but CDs are still so good to hear and there is no downloading and sorting. If I like the singer or choir just put in the whole one and listen to the whole track. No jumping around from one singer to another. Christmas shows and concerts on TV are enjoyed. I watched the Country Music Christmas special this week while I did some Christmas stuff. I love this season. As short drives in the area are taken, it is wonderful to see the Christmas lights each household puts up. Of course many houses do not have lights, so the ones that do are a pleasure to see. The stores and Santas at the Malls are decorated with festive colours. So the daily activities that are done until stress sets in then stopped to relax the body. At work, the stream of goodies for staff are starting to arrive. So must pace the eating of cookies and chocolates with some needed exercise. Walking and weights are good. Maybe some pre-Christmas cleaning of dusty corners will burn off some calories too. Maybe just laying back once the tree is up with lights and decorated. Some of my favourite activities while  sitting beside the tree in the Family Room are knitting or crocheting or just reading. It reminds me so much of my childhood. The lights on the tree that flash at intervals can be mesmerizing. Yes there are other lights in the house- on the bannister on the staircase and a little tree in the living room.

Oh Christmas- don't you just love it!!

NANA SAYS THE EXCITEMENT OF HANUKKAH AND CHRISTMAS IS IN THE AIR

Living in a Christian/Jewish community, two major holidays are around the corner for children. Presents and good eating. Being with family and planning positive events is important. Schools celebrate- Happy Holidays, though I think it is okay to say Happy Hanukkah or Merry Christmas. I celebrate other faith groups events like Diwali and am not offended if someone acknowledges their wonderful celebrations. The toy drives are inclusive for all children. The toys I donate can go to any child in need of a toy at Christmas regardless of faith. We teach our children what giving is about and it is not just to people like we are. So letting children of all faith groups join in the fun of the season is good. Emphasizing peace and love and acceptance and inclusion never hurts anyone. To try to counter the bad news with hope of a better tomorrow can be part of all the hoopla of presents. My crèche or there are actually 3 different ones on a display where my grand kiddies can play with them along with story books of the Christmas miracle are available. So parents brace yourselves for the December ride of non-stop everything from social events to home baking to crafting to secret wrapping. Enjoy being the Santa as the time flies by and before you know it, your little ones will not be so little anymore. Yes it is exhausting, so get some rest when you can! And remember to find the child inside yourself and enjoy as much of the season as you can.

THE FIRST CHRISTMAS WITHOUT A LOVED ONE

In the joyous busy season, for some it may be the first Christmas without a loved one. For many families loved ones move across the country, the continent or even the world. Although there is the Internet, Skype, texting and old fashioned letter writing, it is not the same when family gets together and a person or two is missing. But you know he/she/they are alive and well. When a death has occurred during the year, the loss can be heightened in this season. So what to do! Acknowledge the pain and you are missing the person. Is there something you can do to keep the memory alive. A favourite flower on the Christmas table! A little ornament with a happy picture on the tree! The Christmas grace especially written to include everyone! Revisiting old Christmas celebrations and the happy memories really help. So fast forward. What happy memories are you making? Can you remember to try to make the festive events happy as possible? Yes there is stress and sometimes too much family togetherness! Little children and their energy and noise can be overwhelming at times. Just think you are creating memories that may need to be grabbed at a future date. Try to make it the best Christmas ever. Remembering the loss from the year and including the memories of Christmas past is good. Without being morbid, think if this was the last Christmas we are together, what can I do to make it special! The last Christmas, my mother-in-law was alive since it was apparent her cancer was advancing, I took a video of her doing many special Christmas things so my family could have a wonderful memory to view occasionally if needed. It sits on the shelf. Missing a loved one is huge. So if you know someone who has lost a family member this year, reach out and let he/she share the feelings emerging. All firsts are not easy ones! Are you missing someone this year? In all the joy do you have a sense of sadness? Share those thoughts or feelings with trusted friends or family.

DECEMBER- MONTH OF FUN AND STRESS-SOME STRATEGIES

Even though the festive season can be lots of fun, it comes with lots of stress. Especially for families with young children. Home and school events along with lessons are packed in there. So December is here so everyone need to take a deep breath and revamp the lists and things to do. Like any other time, one day at a time. Enjoying the events of the season and trying to reduce the stress comes with stress strategies.
#1 Recognize it can be stressful
#2 What makes it stressful for you. List the things.
#3 Can you divide the work? example, family meals, everyone brings a dish!
#4 Reduce the running around for gifts with a clear plan. example, only go to 3 stores at a time, shop online, use gift cards.
#5 Take an evening off by watching a movie. If you can not sit still, wrap or write cards, letters or emails  while watching the movie.
# 6 When taking the toy to the toy drive or food to the food bank, give a lesson to the children about why you are doing this activity.
#7 Stop and do some creative activities for yourself or others. It could be as simple as a nice dish of mixed pine cones with a ribbon on top. A dish with some coloured balls! Or the proverbial cookies or Gingerbread house ( they come nicely boxed and easy to make).
#8 Keep some exercise or activity going to help with the overeating and drinking that may occur. Example, a walk hand in hand with a loved one on a snowy street to recapture the feeling of childhood. O course try not to overeat or drink, like that is easy.
#9 Take a deep breath or many deep breaths.
#10 Rest and not too many late nights. Sleep keeps us going.
#11 Say no to some events or activities.
#12 Remember the true meaning of the Christmas season- go to church often, read the story or find the chapters in the Bible.
So the twelve stresses for today. There could be more but it is only the beginning of the month. Perhaps you have your own ways to cope with the stress of the season. Would love to hear about them!

HAPPY DECEMBER EVERYONE!