Farewell Christmas Tree

In Toronto, Christmas tree collection begins this week, so this evening I am accompanied by the twinkling lights in the corner of my living room for the last time.

Technically it's only the ninth day, out of the twelve days of Christmas, so I feel as though I can squeeze in one more holiday before it's back to work again.

My mom and grandparents were German immigrants. We celebrated Christmas during the evening of the 24th, which I still find to be the most magical time of the holiday season. As a tradition, my grandparents would always send my sister and tree ornaments that they either hand made or imported. (Depending on their health that year.) I still have all of these ornaments and that is what I use (along with a few additions) every year. Most still have the year written on the back.

The last one was an addition. I know, nothing says Christmas like Tom Brady.

Okay, that's the last post about Christmas you'll here from me. (Until next December.)

P.S. Right now, on CBC Radio 2, they are playing holiday arrangements by jazz pianist Bill Mays and bass player Neil Swainson. You can listen here.

Visit!

We've had lovely visitors from Halifax, Nova Scotia all week. Here are some pictures of Alex and her beautiful Auntie at a restaurant in the Junction.

Remembering Dad

It was my dad's birthday today...

"Old as she was, she still missed her daddy sometimes."  ~Gloria Naylor

Thanksgiving Story: Homecoming

There's something about the fall and homecoming. Not just to your alma mater, but to home. While I love the idea of raising Alex in the big city, she gets to experience all the culture and activity that surround her everyday, I also love taking her out to the country. It's really breathtaking here.

After visiting one of my best friend and her new baby at their family farm in Lakeside, we drove over to my childhood house. Another family calls it home, but we still took it all in.

Thanksgiving Story: Apple Land

Alex and I had a really wonderful Thanksgiving. Determined to get away from it all we headed "up the country". We visited my mom's place to see some family and friends.

One special outing included our visit to Apple Land Station. This amazing apple orchard is located just outside of Thorndale, Ontario. It had a pick-your-own apple orchard, a pumpkin patch, an gigantic sand hill, a petting zoo, a cafe, live music, face painting, and (if that wasn't enough) a train! All of Alex's favourite things.

We had a blast. Right now I have a ridiculous amount of apples sitting on my counter. (I guess it's time to learn how to bake pies?)

All aboard to Apple Land!

 

 Alex testing the apples. 

 Alex takes face painting VERY seriously. This is the only time I ever see her sit so still.  

 It was worth it!

Modern Family Season Premier

At last. The moment I've been waiting for: the premier of Modern Family's third season.

The thermostat song had to be my favourite moment from the first season.