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I love Christmas.  Ours has been lovely so far, and there are several more days to go!  Yes, we will keep our tree up for all twelve days, and have a little Twelfth Night party.  On Christmas eve we went to the tiny little country church down the road and saw all our neighbours and sang Christmas carols and the service was actually quite gorgeous and sweet, and exceeded my admittedly very low expectations, which is kind of a horrible thing to say, I know, but I am a veteran of Anglican churches and Anglican church Xmas services, and I find them both comforting and disappointing for the most part, so this was refreshing.  All I can say about the kids at church is that this year no one knocked over the advent wreath or any burning candles (this time!), so all is well.  I did drag Horus into the foyer and lovingly threaten him; par for the course, it seems.    We came back home and the kids got their new pyjamas and we played some games by the fire, then Lee and I stayed up way too late furiously wrapping presents.   Santa Claus went overboard again as usual, including strider bikes for all the kids, and lots of other gorgeous things, but it’s a lot to take in, and I could, sadly, relate, when Horus had his meltdown Christmas morning.  It was strangely, unseasonably warm for us this year in New Brunswick, and it rained almost hysterically all day, so Horus and I went out for a walk in the woods, just the two of us, and we came back cleansed, inside and out.  Later on Christmas day, we went to Lee’s parents house upriver, and had a great time hanging out with cousins in a warm full house.  Songs were sung, and a good time was had by all. Today was not only warm, but sunny, so we went for another walk down to the river, and we only managed to open our present presents this afternoon. It was kind of nice to spread the gifting out a bit.   We cooked a ham this afternoon, and the kids explored their loot. Felix, especially, ate so much chocolate I was worried that he might be seriously injured, but he’s sleeping peacefully now, and I think he’ll survive.  So many thoughtful gifts, so many beautiful people in our lives.  The house is a happy disaster of wrapping paper and bits of shortbread and such scattered everywhere.  We’re feeling grateful and glowy, and cozy and joyful.  You too, I hope.  xo