Christmas Part 2 of 2

On Nana's birthday Jason had called her with the surprise that we'd be all making our way out to Manitoba for Christmas. With the flight time being six hours and drive time being another 2 hours I wasn't sure how the kidlets would fare. But I figured just focus on the destination and we'd be there in no time.

 

However, Alistair and Francis were a dream to fly with. Alistair actually seemed to enjoy the trip there and coed away which made the trip surprisingly enjoyable.

Francis got her hug in to the greeting polar bear as we landed. By then she was pretty much done but lucky for us she snoozes in the vehicle so once we were in motion she slept the rest of the way.

Fortunately we didn't have to make the three hours drive North to the island and had down time at Pine Falls at Nana and Papa's house before heading a little further North.





It didn't take Francis long to warm up to Nana and find a comfortable place to get some snuggles in.

 Plus chill out on the floor and regroup.

Christmas lights were up all over Pine Falls which made for some fun outtings with the kids.

The kids cousin, Elizabeth, came up early to spend time with all of us. Francis was in heaven and was a little shadow of Elizabeth for the rest of our stay there.

We all made our way North to Loon Straits a few days later. It was great as both of Jason's siblings and families were able to come for several days so it was a big warm household of people making it very Christmasy.

 There were lots of cuddles to go around.

Along with some fun and goofy times.

 

Fortunately the weather wasn't as bitter cold as it has been on some trips out there so we got a fair amount of outside time together which was good for all.

It also made for some good snoozing medicine!

Because it had been so mild we had wondered if there was a chance we wouldn't get over to the island as that's where the cabin is located but it didn't seem to be a problem.

We loaded up the sleigh with bags and people and headed across. It also made for fun outings at night singing Christmas Carols as we got towed about the island on a starry night.

It was also great that Alistair was able to be involved in all of the outings changing up his environment as we were away for ten days!

 

It was also great for the kids to finally meet each other along with the Aunt and Uncles meeting nieces and nephews for the first time. I don't like to complain about the vastness of our country but it does put a road block into family connections at times. The nice thing it didn't take much to catch up or create some lovely connections.

Like I said Francis couldn't get enough of Elizabeth who did so well with all the hugs and heel walking Francis did.

It was fun that they got to giggle away and create some family ties.

Anna (Nana) had the home decorated to the nines and the feasts were fantastic. There was no way but to be in the mood for Christmas while we were there.

One of Francis favorite things to do while we were on the island was to dress up and go dance outside with "Frosty". He had a little button to push and the girls would go dance away with him. Francis didn't seem to care if it was 25 below or not she needed to dance.

And even when she couldn't be outside she'd peak out to make sure he was still ok.



Alistair's favorite thing was to lie on the floor beside Nana as she effortlessly played Christmas tunes on the piano. His smiles and vocalizations were endless.

Unfortunately, it all had to come to an end but the time we had was lovely. We packed up all the goodies we got and headed South to Winnipeg for the night before flying home.

Alistair was more than happy to get home as he did acquire a sinus infection and we were pretty lucky to get home when we did. We thought we had given ourselves enough time to get on the plane being at the airport an hour in advance. WRONG. As soon as we got in the lineup we were told by a WestJet agent that there was no way we'd be flying out on our 645am flight and we would have to be rebooked AND they weren't sure it would be the same day! Fortunately, when we got to the lady who checks your bags etc she had a soft spot for us. She asked us if we could go spend the day with family in town and Jason said " nope this (airport) is our home for the day". It was then she said " we got to try and make this happen". Thanks to her she got on the phone to people on the other side of security and they basically ran us to the airplane doors! WHEW! Thank you WestJet!!

So nothing like adding a bit of excitement to the end of a wonderful and relaxing trip!

 

HOME SWEET HOME

 

The Show Must Go On!

Alistair had been struggling with some sinus stuff and to my dismay it was getting worse just prior to his Christmas concert. The faculty had been making such an incredible effort to ensure that there was a ramp and room available so he'd seamlessly get on stage with his classmates. In addition, he had s significant role on stage when it was the kindergartens moment of fame. I was so touched by all the on going efforts from everyone that it saddened me that after all this it may not become a reality.

The day before I noticed a hair poking out of his nose and proceeded to pull my foot long plus hair from his irritated nostril. Who knew that was going to be the culprit. This being the factor made me push for him to be at the concert as I knew then it wasn't a stomach bug or head cold. However, he still was gagging due to nasal drip issues. I said to a couple staff members at Buckhorn Elementary that we would make a decision last minute but I was worried he'd puke on stage. Their response: "So what! Then we clean it up" This is a perfect example of how easy and uncomplicated they've all been during Alistair's transition to school. This eased mama greatly.

One would never have guessed from the pictures there were any issues prior. He was obviously so delighted to be there. Landon in the top picture and another little girl Taylor took on the important role of ensuring Alistair was in the right place at the right time. Both these little ones have been such important and natural buddies since Alistair arrived in school on his first day. Anyhow, when Alistair rolled on stage he was beaming from ear to ear with his beautiful smile and waving his hands about in delight. His Mom and Grandma had tears and Uncle George and Dad did the stoic (pre tears) thing. This was the best Christmas present I/Alistair could ever have. What an amazing transition this experience has been. One thing for sure is Alistair has taught me that the show must go on!

Merry Christmas Everyone!

 

Chrismtas ~ Part one of two

Christmas was fabulous this year. We celebrated it twice. Once in British Columbia and once in Manitoba. This post is of the BC celebration.

Uncle George came out nice and early so we all had time to do our classic relaxing and bonding.

It was an incredibly fun Christmas for Francis as she really was so much more aware of everything from the bright  "pretty" lights, Christmas decorations, and chocolate event calendar.

I even joined the bandwagon and pulled out our Christmas elf  "Elfie" (I know very original hey!) She loved this guy. But as soon as she found him it was pertinent he got back on Rudolf so that he could head back to Santa the following night.

For some reason "Frosty" became the popular fellow of the season for little Miss Francis. Everywhere we went she would yell with joy if she found another Frosty. It made it very easy to keep her delighted over the season.

As usual Francis loved her one on one time with Grandma. There is always something new to learn and explore with Grandma.

 

 Uncle George added to Francis collection of Lego. The day was a nice long relaxing one just to allow enjoyment in everything that there was to enjoy.

Alistair particularly loved all the wrapping paper and bright active toys he got.

Nothing better than Daddy time!

So although there was a almost green grass outside to celebrate Christmas this year it all felt very festive indoors with the family.