by Tinka
My 43 year old son just stopped by with presents he had bought for me to give his wife for Christmas. He knows her tastes so much better than I do. I was surprised to see him traveling in this snowy weather. He looked like Santa Claus as he came through the door.
It appears we may have a white Christmas this year as we have already had 6 inches of snow with more expected tonight. As it is only one week until The Big Day, there is a good chance we may be having snow on the ground Christmas morning. My mind wandered back to the last time we had a White Christmas. I think that was “A Perfect Christmas”.
It was Christmas Eve 1972. My children were just over 2, 3 and 5 and Christmas excitement was high that year. I wanted it to be extra special because my son would be going into grade one the next year. Being a grade one teacher I knew that this might be the last year that all three of them would truly believe that Santa Claus would come down the chimney. Now I have always believed in Santa Claus and always will (don’t tell me any differently) but I knew that some children at 6 stopped “hearing the bell” as explained in Chris Van Allsburg’s book, “The Polar Express".
It was 7:00 in the evening, all the preparations were finished. The baking was done, presents wrapped, children were sparkling clean in sparkling new matching p.j’s. Clothes were laid out for the annual Christmas dinner at the grandparents - tiny red velvet dresses with lace sleeves for the girls and a blue (big boy) suit for Kevin.
For the first time we had TWO trees freshly cut and brought in from our trout farm at Sooke. The upstairs’ tree was decorated beautifully because that was the tree visitors would see. The downstairs' one was decorated with ornaments made by the children. You can imagine which tree was my favourite.
The children and I were sitting by the fire recording Christmas stories and songs into a large tape recorder. We recorded “Old Toy Trains“ with Glen Campbell’s help. In the background we could hear the tapping of a hammer. It sounded like elves but it was my husband putting the finishing touches on the big mountain with tracks for the electric train Santa had promised to bring. Christmas spirit was definitely permeating the air.
After a letter was written to Santa and cookies left out, three little children were tucked into bed. My husband and I, pleased with ourselves, stood looking out the window. With God as my witness it began to snow. We looked at each other and almost at the same time said, “It doesn’t get any better than this”. It was the first white Christmas Victoria had since 1945.
Christmases would come and go. Some were very good and others not but I will always have the recording of “That Perfect Christmas”.
Hi
ReplyDeleteyippee!!! happy dance!!! Ow!! my back....
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful story Tink!! I could just picture the beautiful decorations and the falling snow as I was reading.
ReplyDeleteGood morning and congrats on 1st! (in case you are wondering, that puts you 4 ahead of Lynn D)
ReplyDeleteTonka what a beautiful memory to have. Thanks for sharing it with us. BBL.
Morning Glories!
ReplyDeleteScrishy becareful doing those happy dances! Congrats on 1st!
Shirley good morning to you!
Tinka that Christmas sounded wonderful! I will have to think about a perfect Christmas because I just can't bring one to mind.
I think my best memories are of the excitement of knowing it was Christms eve and not being able to sleep. Then watching as my children caught that same excitement and would come in almost every hour asking if it was time to get up yet! Those memories always make me smile.
Will be back in a bit going to see how much new snow we have this morning!
One of my favorite Christmas memories is the first year my ex and I were married. We were very poor and really had no money for Christmas presents for our families. I was an Avon Rep at the time and all we could do is get small Avon stuff as gifts. Then, Christmas Eve my husband came home with a bonus from work. We walked into the center of the small town we lived in and amazingly found special gifts for everyone. We were walking home very happy that we were able to have gifts for our families and admiring all the lights and decorations, when it started to snow. We stopped in the middle of the sidewalk, looked at each other, said Merry Christmas at the same time and shared a kiss. We then ran, skipped and danced the rest of the way home and sat wrapping our gifts in front of the wood stove looking out at the softly falling snow.
ReplyDeleteGood Morning Hooters!
ReplyDeleteScrishy, what can I say??? LOL
Beautiful story Tink! It was almost like we were there.
My perfect Christmas was 1984. Mr. Goldie and I had been married a year and a half. MR. Goldie had officially adopted our oldest in May, our youngest was born in June and we were an 'official' family. We didn't have much, but we were happy and complete. :)
Hope everyone has a great day. No doubt that we will have a white Christmas- they are talking 9-12 inches of snow for us tonight and tomorrow morning!!!
K-GIRL-- hope you arrived safely!!
Good Morning Everyone!
ReplyDeleteOff to read the blog!
Nine
ReplyDeleteTEN! Now off to read the blog!! ;)
ReplyDeleteI have decided the perfect Christmas for us was the year we decided that we were no longer going to make the Christmas Eve and Christmas day treks to other relatives houses.
ReplyDeleteWe had a long talk one year after xmas and realized how stressful it was for us and for the kids. They would open their presents and would not have a chance to play with them as we would have to pack everything up and head for the next house. They were cranky we were cranky and really it was just a drag.
So the next xmas we let it be known we were staying home. We could see them and get together after xmas but we wanted the kids to have xmas mornings at home. This was the best decision we ever made. It was such a relief and a relaxing day as we opened our presents and prepared our celebration in our own home.
That is how xmas breakfast started and we feasted all day while the kids played with their new gifts!
Starting our own family traditions was so special.
Good morning, Goldie, Zona, Lynn D, Scrishy, and Shirley!
ReplyDeleteTinkatia, you took me right into your world and your memory! Great blog!
I wish I had one Christmas that stands out like that one does for you... it would certainly help if white Christmases were that rare in Ontario. Instead, they're common.
Have a great day, Owls!
Good morning!
ReplyDeleteTink what a beautiful story! felt like I was right there in your home.
Right now I can't think of the perfect Christmas, they've all been really good!
I have to leave for work shortly so will check back later.
Have a nice day everyone!
ha - can't be 11 if you aren't signed in!!! LOL
ReplyDeleteHappy Thursday!!!
Good morning.......
Scirish - congrats on FIRST
Tinka - thank you for sharing the Perfect Christmas with us - I felt like i was watching a movie!! Thank you!!!
waving howdy to Scirish, Shirley, Lynn D, Goldie, Zona and all who land...
I hope everyone has an excellent day!!
:-)
Whabby and EBJ - good morning!!
ReplyDeleteI will also have to dig deep in the memory bank for that perfect Christmas.....
TINKA: What a wonderful blog! Your Christmas that year truly sounded perfect!
ReplyDeleteI have happy memories of every Christmas. There were always so many people at the house and lots of music, food and laughter. I loved the Christmas when my cousin Mario was just two..and my mom had made him a teddy bear. He screamed with delight and danced all around the room with that bear. I can still see the sparkle in his eyes and the smile on his face. My first Christmas with Mr. Z was wonderful here in AZ..as was our first in California. I remember bits and pieces of happiness and joy from so many different Christmases. I don't think we ever had a bad one. Every memory is precious, and I'm thankful for them all.
Great blog today TINKA, thankyou.
Well another day in the house. It is snowing like crazy today! Very weird for Western Washington.
ReplyDeleteSo I guess I will get more done around the house today.
Mary from area 51 I will take one gray and one auburn! Double luck! LOL
SCIRISH: Congrats on FIRST..but be careful!!
ReplyDeleteWaving HI to SHIRLEY, LYNND, GOLDIE, MEK and BEAR!
I will be back in a bit, Nikki is barking like crazy outside.
Congrats on first, Scirish! I'm sorry your back is still hurting!
ReplyDeleteTinka, I loved your Christmas story. What a happy home your children grew up in. No wonder Zona wants you to adopt her!
Good morning, Shirley, LynnD, Goldie, Zona, MEK, Whabbear and EBJ!
I'm off to have lunch with a friend. I'll think about my perfect Christmas.
**whispering** 77 and sunny here today. Feels like I should be in the pool!
Good Morning Scirish. Congrats on first.
ReplyDeleteGood Morning Shirley, Lynn, Goldie, Zona-my-Baby, Shirley,
Mek, Whabbear, East Bay J, Thank you for your kind words. I am not feeling kindly about Christmas snow this morning as we are all snowed in again, after a thaw yesterday. I was expecting a visit from VIG today but very few cars are moving and many schools are closed due to snow. I think she may not be able to make it and that makes me sad.
I must feed my "babies" and I will be back in a while. Thanks again. Love, Tinka
Is it okay to march to 25 on your owl blog? I must check the rule book. See you in a while.
ReplyDeleteNikki seems to have taken issue with the neighbors in their hot tub..don't know what she heard, but she didn't like it. ;)
ReplyDeleteTINKA: Good morning!! I think it's ok to march to 25 any day! :)
ReplyDeleteGood Morning SANDIE! HI EBJ!
I guess I should get my rear in gear and get my stocking stuffers today...Apparently we are in for a Nor'easter with 14 " of snow and lingering crud all weekend. I just know it's gonna be crazy out there!
ReplyDeleteHappy Snow Day, Snowy Owls!
ReplyDeleteTink...Josephine, my little grey bomb of a car, has proven that she's a dandy (as my Dad would say) in the snow, so let's just see how the cookie crumbles or the snow melts as the day goes on! I haven't ruled out a visit to your house this afternoon yet. I know seeing you and your beautiful decorations, will put me in the Christmas spirit big time! And it would be so nice to have a visit, so let's just wait and see.
And my dear neighbour lady, I love, love, love your blog! What a fantastic Christmas you provided for your children and definitely a memory to hang on to this Christmas and always. My hope for you is that all your Christmases provide you with memories of perfect moments or perfect days!
My memories of the perfect Christmas would be the first 24 of my life because my Mom was in them. She loved Christmas immensely and always made them special. I know there were fights and things didn't always go right, but I don't remember those parts, I just remember the good bits!
Hope everyone is warm and cozy and out of the snow or rain!
Good Morning/Afternoon Everyone!!!!
ReplyDeleteJust wanted to fly in for a minute to say....I'm thinking of you! ♥♥
Congrat's on First Scirish!
I haven't forgotten about all of you ...just been super busy around the house and then crashing from exhaustion and a sore body! :o(
For some stupid reason, I decided to clean my kitchen and laundry rooms from top to bottom... We just painted both room's a few week's ago. I've cleaned out all the drawer's and washed ALL the cupboard's! All total..both rooms....Freakin'..41 door's and drawer's!!! Then swept all the furniture and room's, baseboard's, mopped, put up some new light fixture's, cleaned all the picture's on the wall's, washed all the dog's blanket's, blew the freakin' snow...doing more laundry now..still have to do two bathroom's and three bedroom's!!!!
When I get super, super picky...Nothing is Safe!
I Spent a few hours with my mother last saturday and watched my niece.
I have yet to start my Christmas shopping. Maybe tonight. ;o) Hard to do when you don't have a car. Been looking for one of those too.
My sister came by for a visit yesterday, so I did have some down time. Yeah!!!!
I've tried to check in on MS, but only for a few short minute's...I'm way behind on that too. So sorry! ;o(
Well.. off to the shower, then get the dishes done and maybe run the vacuum again. Hopefully I'll have time to brush the dog's teeth too...ha!.. after I do some paper
shredding! Oh!! I have to find time to color my hair too!
I'm soooo tired!!!
And..Mr. B actually wonder's WHY I want a Smaller house!! Dingaling!!!!!???
Anywaaaays..... That's what I've been up to, in case anyone was wondering. I hope to catch up with you SOON and I hope you ALL are doing well.
Tink, Lovely story!♥
Miss you♥♥♥♥
Good Morning VIG - Oh I so hope you can still come. My light Christmas cakes should be out of the oven by then. We can have tea by the tree.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the lovely words about my blog. I agree the best Christmas were always when we still had our mom and dad.
Birdee - My dear, are you on
"Speed" today? You have done more lately than I have done all year. Did your mother always have to do the Christmas cleaning before any decorations could go up? Mine did. We always had a big Spring cleaning and then a huge Christmas cleaning. Then the tree was bought.
You take it easy now and enjoy the rest of the season. You are working too hard.
BIRDEE: OMG! Slow down! You'll have ruffled feathers! ;) Miss you too!!
ReplyDeleteVIG: Yep, moms sure knew how to make Christmas special!
Well, it's a sunny day here..cyrstal blue sky..highs in the 60's...lovin' it!
Hope everyone has a great day!
TINKA, you practically leave me speechless. Those are the memories that bring a smile and a tear to one's eyes. Such a wonderful memory (among many many I know) for you and for your children. When I look at your wonderful family pictures and read your heartfelt words I always feel like I have been right there with you. I hope you have a White Christmas with just enough snow to be pretty and safe for any travel.
ReplyDeleteMe and my big mouth..there's a storm moving in again! Phooey! ;)
ReplyDeleteTINKA, LMAO at Birdee, are you on speed?
ReplyDeleteSCIRISH, LYNN, SHIRLEY, GOLDIE, ZONA, MEK, EBJ, VIG, BIRDEE, SANDIE, BEAR, TINK......HELLO, and aren't some of the best Christmases the one's where we don't necessarily have very much money.
I have a lot of family memories of Christmas, but there is one kind of silly one that always make me smile. Years ago I was alone on Christmas and went to a close friend's house. I listened to Handel's Messiah on the way over crossing the golden gate bridge. It was so peaceful. We had absolutely nothing planned for dinner and ended up going to Thriftys Drug store and bought brownie ice cream and rollos and instant mashed potatoes. That was our dinner. We just sat and talked and played cards and did a lot of laughing .
Happy Thursday Owls.
ReplyDeleteTinka, What a beautiful Christmas story. I wish we had done more when the kids were small to capture their thoughts, words, or just their voice. We had all the means: still camera, movie camera, tape recorder, but we just never had the 'time.' How silly of us to think that whatever we were doing, was more important than having fun making memories with the kids. Of course, we did some of those things, but IMO, not enough. Oh, the GUILT!
Off to read the comments.
Lani - You always say the sweetest things. You must come for a visit. A little birdie told me that might be possible. No, it wasn't our precious birdie in our nest but I did hear it. I have lots of room for you.
ReplyDeleteZona - What kind of storm? I thought you only had sunshine down there.
Our roads are quite impassible (is that a word)? especially my driveway. It's on a hill. I will save you a piece of fruit cake VIG. Don't risk your body or your car to drive in it today. We will make up for in when you get back from Mexico.
40
ReplyDeleteTINKA: It has been raining for three days..and it looked like today was going to be beautiful. Now the sky is turning dark and they are saying there is a 40% chance of more rain.
ReplyDeleteLANI: Thrify's ice cream was the best!!
SACBARB: Oh to have had video in those days! We never had a movie camera but my folks took lots of pictures. Still..to hear the voices and actually be able to see everyone in action..how fun would that be??!
Tink...I am feeling quite sorry for myself that the weather outside is frightful and that the roads are too bad to drive over to your house. But we will definitely get together in January to bring in the new year!!!! (And to eat some Christmas cake! Thanks for saving me a piece!!!)
ReplyDeleteJodi and Zona..greatly enjoyed my first threesome last night. Was it good for you?
VIG: I can't stop thinking about it! ;)
ReplyDeleteZona....shouldn't you be sleeping? Auntie Nort says go to bed!!!!!
ReplyDeleteSandie - I just noticed I forgot to say "Good Morning" to you. I must have scrolled past your post. Of all people to miss, you who have been so kind to keep encouraging me while my back was so bad. I really appreciated all those messages. By the way I have already adopted Zona. The papers were final last month.
ReplyDeleteSacBarb - Good Morning. I have lots of tapes and 35m films and albums but oh how I would love to have had video so you could see them talking in the 'movie'. At least I have it for the grandchildren but I look at the old movies and I wish I could hear what they are saying at the time.
I am going to rest while my Christmas cakes bake. They are in a very slow oven of 250 degrees so I have plenty of time for a nap. See you all later. Be careful, those of you who are in the snow.
TINK, my heart directs my words. And, speaking of words, I still worry sometimes if when I am teasing someone,they know I am teasing. I haven't been blogging for very long and I am still not quite used to doing any kind of teasing when I can't see the other person's expression to know how they are taking something. If I ever offend someone please tell me.
ReplyDeleteBARB, I don't have my childhood memories on tape or even very many pictures. How ridiculous is that, as my father was a cinema photographer and recording engineer! Jennifer's father and I have more with our daughter, but even so, her father always liked to take pictures and make slides. So, guess where they are.....in boxes in the garage.
SHIRLEY, I know you are quaking in your boots since I purchased my squirrel launcher, but don't worry too much, as I will use soft snow.
Birdee, can you come over to my house?
ReplyDeleteVIG - Hey, how come I was left out of that threesome. Oh I guess then it would be a foursome wouldn't it? They are not fashionable!!!! LOL
ReplyDeleteZona - Like mother, like daughter. You and I were both writing about missing out on videos years ago. We were writing the same thing at the same time. Wow.
I think I need a nap.
Thank you, Tinka! Have a restful nap.
ReplyDelete50 If I am not breaking any rules.
ReplyDeleteYou are welcome Sandie. I think I messed up the numbers once again. I must fix that before I go to bed.
ReplyDelete53
ReplyDeleteNow they are correct.
ReplyDeleteVIG, have the best trip ever. When I do come up to see you and TINK I think I probably won't want to leave your beautiful Victoria or you two.
ReplyDeleteBoy it is a mess here! Our entertainment for the day is watching idiots going way to fast and trying to make the corner in front of our driveway! Mr. Lynn D stayed home today and we just had to go help push a small car out of the ditch in front of our house!
ReplyDeleteTwo trucks have almost hit our mailbox! I actually have cards in it to go out in the mail today! I hope they get here before it is down because I am guessing someone is going to nail it soon!
Will be back with a report for later.
Lani - I am almost in bed but I just wanted to say I am sure you would never hurt anyone's feelings. You are too kind. People know if you are teasing especially if you put the famous LOL. Love, Tinka
ReplyDeletePhone rang and had to take the call.
ReplyDeleteVig I am so excited for you on your trip to Mexico! I am sitting dreaming about sun, sand and the beach. (sigh)
Tinka I bet your house is beautiful with all of the xmas decorations up! Very happy to hear your back is doing better!
I am off to finish my bedroom. While I don't have near the energy Birdee seems to have. I did strip our bed and put one of our early xmas presents on it. A new feather bed! Yummy! I also bought some wonderful ultra suede back rests and new feather pillows! I can't wait to crawl into my new nest tonight!
Ok off to finish be back in a bit.
AUNTIE NORT: Going to sleep now..are you gonna wish me sweet dreams?? ;)
ReplyDeleteScirish, congrats on #1 today. I hope you back feels better soon, so you can enjoy Christmas.
ReplyDeleteLynnD, I remember the year we made we same decision about staying home for Christmas. So much less stress and the kids were grateful, too.
Zona & Scirish, Hubby and I were only married a month before our first Christmas and we each went shopping to get a gift for each other. I went with Hubby's sister. Hubby went with a friend. My SIL and I shopped until the stores closed and Hubby and friend shopped quickly and then went for some adult beverages. When I got home, my Hubby was laying nekkid under the tree, 'waiting' for me. Thank goodness, my SIL didn't come in the house with me! She would still be in therapy.
Tinka, Our first movie camera was a 35mm also, given to us by my parents who had it for years. So there was no sound. Later we got a new video camera with sound and it was difficult to get anyone to talk to the camera.
ReplyDeleteSACBARB!!!!! LMAO!!! I guess you were a very good girl that year!! ;)
ReplyDeleteReally. I'm going to go to sleep..
ReplyDeleteReally...really...
ReplyDeletesoon....
ReplyDeletein just a second...
ReplyDeleteVery sleepy now...
ReplyDeleteWaving hello to all the Owls who have landed today:
ReplyDeleteScirish
Shirley
LynnD
Goldie
Zona
MEK
Bear
EBJ
Tinka
Sandie
VIG
Birdee
Lani
and to everyone who lands after this.
K-girl, I hope you have landed safely and you can stay warm.
Carol ((((HUGS))) just because.
69..for SACBARB!!! ;)
ReplyDeleteWoo Hoo, that was 69.
ReplyDeleteHappy Dance, Happy Dance!
Well dang lady..you got it all on your own!! Congrats!!! LOL!! And naptime for me..
ReplyDeleteYes, Zona, I was a verrry good girl.
ReplyDeleteHello:
ReplyDeleteTINK: Don't feel bad being not included in the threesome. Knowing those gals it was probably about 2AM!
Well, it sounds like many of us have excess snow to bring to the party tomorrow. I wonder how long it will stay in a pack-back?
I had all my beauty treatments this morning and it was great. Now I am going to wrap again and then get ready for Jersey Boys. A lady I met at the nail shop told me to drink wine and wrap and that makes it much better. I told her I wished I would have met her about 20 years ago. I hope MRD won't think it is strange tomorrow to see me having toast and wine! :)
TINK: I love your story. I felt also like I was watching a movie. I have many happy memories as a child and as a mom and now as a grandmother. I just always hope there isn't too much snow on the roads on Christmas.
Hi to all who have come by and good afternoon to those waking from their naps.
Going to wrap......
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeletePUBLIC NOTICE TO ALL OWLS AND OWLETTES
ReplyDeleteThe Banquet Hall, Ball Room and backyard are off limits until the party tomorrow. No exceptions, except me :)!
SHIRLEY: Where the heck are we supposed to perch between now and then and eat and sleep? It's too cold to be out on a branch--ever with JAX's ladder!! I also have a very heavy back-pack full of ummm Christmas presents!!
ReplyDeleteScirish:
ReplyDeleteCongrats on First!
Tinka:
I loved your "Perfect Christmas" as I was reading it I pictured the whole scenario, in all its splendor, it is really just such a special blog. I was taken back in time, and am thrilled to know what your "Perfect Christmas" was..
Thank you Tinka ♥♥♥
My Perfect Christmas...
Each Christmas Eve, we have our fish dinner, then onto roasted nuts and fresh fruits, then onto desserts and expresso. After all this wonderful food we sit around our Christmas tree and open our gifts one by one, yes a daunting task, however we love it.
This one year (around 1970) my brother and my SIL gave me a Mickey Mouse watch. When I opened it, I was just so very excited as I wanted it so. It was also so special as in my mind it came from my brother, which as I got older I realized it was my SIL doings, however his name was on the card and that is all that mattered to me at the time.. and of course I adored my SIL and still do...
I was so thrilled that I started to cry and could not catch my breath, that is how excited I was. All were around me, to make sure I was ok, which of course I was...
Each Christmas Eve, I would sing in the school choir at midnight mass. That year my brother and SIL took me to mass (and attended), and as I stood on the alter with my red choir gown singing all the Christmas Carols, I kept touching my wrist and the watch to make sure it really was there.. and as I looked out to the congregation all I focused on was my brother and SIL. I was ever so happy..
It really was the perfect Christmas..
Scirish:
ReplyDeleteWow.. that was so sweet.. It is amazing how the smallest of things will just bring us such happiness..
Thanks for sharing!
Carol - I am awake and I am sitting here nibbling on Christmas fruit cake and sipping on non alcoholic egg nog. I always make a little one just for me to test it fresh from the oven. It's pretty good. I will leave some pieces in the nest.
ReplyDeleteI just read "Your Perfect Christmas" and I loved it. Now I am going to start at the beginning and read about everyone's best Christmas past. Thank you all for writing them and thank you Carol for posting mine.
LynnD:
ReplyDeleteYes, that is what my SIL always did, she would have Christmas Day dinner for all of us, so we would go there and the kids would be home all day with their toys.. and she would not have to stress about getting the kids out of the house on Christmas..
Zona:
ReplyDeleteI agree, especially as I get older, each memory is just so very special.
It makes me happy to know your Christmas's were always so bright..
Birdee HO HO HO:
ReplyDeleteIts about 7days before Christmas, you better get your wings all ready to fly thru those malls.. I would say flying would be much quicker than walking....
good to see ya!
Vig:
ReplyDeleteEnjoy your trip.. I will miss ya, and will certainly be thinking about ya.. SWAK ♥♥♥
Turtle:
ReplyDeleteHope you arrived safe and sound..
Lani:
ReplyDeleteAs long as one can be happy on Christmas, that is all that matters..
:O)
Sandie:
ReplyDeleteThe only pool I will be jumping in, is the pool of icy water, as we get a ice/rain storm tomorrow. So wish it was yours tho! :O)
Dianne:
ReplyDeleteYou are going to see "Jersey Boys".
It is fab, I saw it on Broadway in its opening Month.. I think is was Nov 2005.. And I remember it as if it was yesterday..
Or maybe Nov 2006.. not sure...
Dianne:
ReplyDeleteForgot to say...
If you like the Four Seasons music you will love it...
Sacbarb:
ReplyDeleteI was never a big picture taker, however my SIL was, so she has most of the pics and videos.. You are right, we forget to "Stop and smell the coffee"...
Shirley:
ReplyDeleteOk, I won't access Owl Manor at all, that is until tomorrow when I have to open it up for the party..
:O)
Tinka:
ReplyDeleteI am glad you are feeling better.. and your blog today made me feel better.. and I am flooded with my
memories and the memories all the owls..
Dianne:
ReplyDeleteyour comment ... LOL
GoldieHo:
ReplyDeleteAre the brownies baking?
:O)
95
ReplyDeleteCarol - Thanks, Yes my back got better when Cara came and spent a whole day helping me. One good day of rest did the trick.
ReplyDeleteTinaHO and JodiHO:
ReplyDeleteAre you both out buying new outfits for the party tomorrow???
Victoria Secret is out to the questions as this blog is rated PG.
:O)
I can't wait until the party tomorrow. Do we bring presents?
ReplyDelete99
ReplyDelete100
ReplyDelete100
ReplyDeleteTinka:
ReplyDeleteI stepped on you.. However I have slippers on.. :O)
Sorry!
Great March tho!
:O)
whoops. We landed on each other again Carol. We must stop meeting like this. People will start talking.
ReplyDeleteCarol - You were very gentle.
ReplyDeleteTinka:
ReplyDeleteYes you can bring presents, and as many as you want.. or has many as your imagination can hold..
:O)
Tinka:
ReplyDeleteLOL.. ppl will start talking..
:O)
Carol - I will get my imagination in gear.
ReplyDeleteTinka:
ReplyDeleteIf I am not gentle with ya, I am afraid Zona, will beat me with her feather duster..
CAROL: If you think the "night owls" are always PG....I would hate to see what is R!! It sometimes seems the later we stay up the more creative we get. TINA AND ZONA have taught me everything I know from the last year and a half. I was like Pollyanna prior to that time....do you believe me? lol
ReplyDeleteI must get something done here. I still have a few last minute presents to wrap. See you all later.
ReplyDeleteTinka:
ReplyDeleteI want a diamond Tennis Bracelet.. Just thought I would make it easier for ya!
:O)
Dianne_not_pollyanna_in_Denver...
ReplyDeleteNo! :O)
Tinka:
ReplyDeleteSee ya later!
I thought about what I said earlier about picture taking and my father. The poor man was such a perfectionist and nervous wreck at work that taking pictures or filming on Christmas just wouldn't have been very much fun for him. I don't even recall having a camera in the house.
ReplyDeleteSCIRISH, how nice that it made you and your husband so happy to buy for your family.
LYNN, your story reminded me of car trips and my sister and I asking every two minutes, "are we there yet"?
DONNA JEAN, where are you?
CAROL- I have baked so many brownies they are stacked to the ceiling! Since I am calling it a snowday from work tomorrow I will be able to replinish at will...:)
ReplyDeleteVIG- Have a great trip and hoist one to your freezing owls in the nest.
scirish Congrats on #1. Your back sure doesn't stop you from being here bright and early but be very careful doing the Happy Dance.
ReplyDeleteTinka What a beautiful Christmas memory! It was right out of a storybook. Thank you for sharing it.
I'm loving all the Christmas stories that have been shared today. To be honest, I haven't been able to remember one that stands out more than the others.
Actually, that's a lie. Christmas of 1974, I was serving my 1 year sentence for dispatching my abusive husband and I was allowed to go home for a few days at Christmas. I was able to spend those precious days with my 3 yr old son and 1 1/2 yr old daughter, my mom, dad and brother. I knew my children and I we were finally safe and I knew I was loved. That was the best of all.
Dianne "....pack-back"? Have you been hitting the wine already? LMAO!!!!
SacBarb Was that the most memorable present you ever found under the tree? Or the largest? LOL
Lordy it is like a white out here! I think we have gotten about 6 inches of snow just today.
ReplyDeleteI have lost count of the number of cars that have ended up in the ditches. Mr. Lynn D says his good samaritan is worn out and they will have to call tow trucks now.
Truly I am amazed no one has gotten hurt.
Waving at Carol, Tinka,Dianne, Goldie and anyone else I missed. I am the one in 3 layers of coats and scarves with the purple hat and gloves!
LynnD Shall we take bets on the chances your mail box will still be standing by tomorrow morning?
ReplyDeleteJust-Lin - I don't think there is any better feeling in this world than feeling safe. It's our most greatest need. I am glad you were safe that Christmas and many others.
ReplyDelete120
ReplyDeleteLynnD~ Funny visual of you under all that snow gear!! ~~~~ waving back at you from not-been-hit-by-the-storm-yet Mary lol!!
ReplyDeleteScirish~congrats on #1!
Tinka, You have a lovely way with words. You surely had a perfect Christmas.
My favorite memory from Christmas was my Mother and loads of church ladies making dozens of tamales. It was a lot of work, but you wouldn't know it by listening to all the ladies laughing and singing all day. They would also make empanadas. It was a sweet pastry rolled into a circle with pumpkin filling. It was folded in half and the edges were pressed with a fork and baked. They were heavenly!!
We all went to church. Kinda had to, my Dad was the preacher lol!
Sometimes the services were held Christmas eve. This always made me impatient as I wanted to go home to peek under the tree! That year I got my favorite toys. Toy dishes,pots & pans and a little stove. I played with them for hours.
Diane, you are going to love The Jersey Boys! I saw their show twice in Vegas.
p.s. my winnings are safe in my credit union :+)
MARY: Tamales?? Empanadas?? I just woke up and now I'm hungry!! YUM!
ReplyDeleteLYNND: Ohhhh...your the one walking like a robot under all that gear! I'm glad no one has gotten hurt..how sweet of Mr. LYNND to help everyone til he pooped out! THAT's what real Christmas spirit is about!
GOLDIE: Have you looked lately?? I bet there are quite a few brownies missing all ready!
Mary - Thank you Mary for the compliment.
ReplyDeleteYour post sounded delicious. It made me hungry. My mother-in- and her sisters used to make dozens of cabbage rolls for the Ukrainian Christmas Jan 7. It was so much fun watching them and most of all listening to them. I think some of the stories were told every year.
CPGEM: I didn't know you played tennis!! ;)
ReplyDeleteI don't have a feather duster..but I do snap a mean microfiber cloth!! ;)
DIANNE: Have fun at Jersey Boys..and don't try to bring one of them home!! You see how well I know you?? ;)
btw..I seem to remember you teaching TINA a thing or two..Pollyanna... LMAO!!
SHIRLEY: I have on my Dr. Denton's..just perfect for sneaking around..padded feet you see... ;)
SACBARB: How good?? ;)
HI TINKA!! Thanks again for the wonderful blog today..so many nice memories!
ReplyDeleteLYNND: Just woke up..should have been 'you're'...
ReplyDeleteJ/LIN: Yes..that is what's best of all.. :)
ReplyDeleteLet's see what the freezer holds...sure wish it was a certain burger..oh well... ;)
Tinka, I haven't had cabbage rolls in years! I'm the only one here that likes them so I don't make them.
ReplyDeleteMr Mary and I went shopping today. What a difference when he goes with me! He is a get-what-you-want-and go-home kinda a guy. No window shopping, price comparing, or sale hunting. My son was more fun than that lol!! We did stop at a sports bar to grab a bite. whoopee lol! I told him I didn't really need anything. I did ask for Bose "noise canceling" earphones. Whabbear got them last year and now I want them lol!!
I tried them in the store and they were fantastic!
Zona- Thank you. I will never catch up with the number of blogs you have written. You are so prolific. You and VIG.
ReplyDelete***a very large freezer truck pulls into Owl Manor drive followed by a florist truck***
ReplyDeleteHEY BRING EVERYTHING AROUND TO THE BACKYARD!!!
***The freezer truck stops first in the backyard while the florist truck pulls up to the back door and starts unloading the beautiful poinsettias and mistletoe. In the back of the freezer truck the men start unloading the life size ice sculputure of Santa and his reindeer.***
Hey! Be careful of that! Do you know how long it takes to carve one of those things?! Geez!!
Oh - I see Shirley has some very important deliveries arriving!!
ReplyDelete:-)
Okay - here's a question..
we had new people move in across the street this week - just now - the doorbell rang - it was a young man (kid about middle-school age) - he was all embarassed and asked to borrow a PLUNGER - OMG - I would have gone to Walmart and purchased one - poor kid -
SO- could you have asked a total stranger to borrow THAT??!! I felt terrible for him......
(LMAO!!!!!!!!!! though)!!!
Hey SHIRLEY, I am across the street! Santa brought me a new launcher.
ReplyDeleteHey Lani...
ReplyDeleteD U C K ! ! ! ! !
MEK, I think I would say to him, please keep it as a house warming present. :)
ReplyDeleteSHIRL, Did I get you, or did BIRDEE just fly over your head?
ReplyDeleteMEK: "borrow" is the operative word here..lol..
ReplyDeleteLANI: Careful where you aim that thing!
***wiping snow off my head and shoulders***
ReplyDeleteYou may have gotten me this time but tomorrow is a new day. MUAHAHAHA!!!
So sorry Tinka to arrive late to your beautiful Christmas Memory blog.
ReplyDeleteANOTHER NOTE TO SELF: Don't rub your eye when you're around glitter. That stuff is SHARP and very difficult to rinse out!
Mek - Isn't that like asking to borrow toilet paper? I am with Lani on this one. I would let him keep it that's for sure. He must have been very embarrassed to have to ask, however.
ReplyDeleteBon' 0 - Thank you for calling my blog beautiful. Is your eye all right? Make sure you get all of it out or else you won't look gorgeous for your Christmas pictures and more importantly it could get infected.
I am off to eat, but I am not sure what? Would someone send me a care package by cyberspace please. I am low on exciting things to eat.
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ReplyDeleteMEK~Just what are they plunging, not their kitchen sink I hope!!!
ReplyDeleteThere is no way I would have borrowed it from a neighbor! Not that your pretty plunger wasn't good enough lol, I'm just saying.....
Evening Popping in as my new feather nest is calling.....
ReplyDeleteJ/L I am not taking bets on the mailbox as we have gotten a few more inches of snow. I am pretty sure it won't make it through the night. (sigh) Another project.
Bono I hope your eye is ok! I really hope it wasn't from any glitter that may have come from my house! Yikes!
Mary I would swear we were in MI if I wasn't pretty sure this is my house! LOL Hmmmm wonder if the wind moved us house and all?
MEK I vote to let them keep the plunger! Poor kid, can you imagine him dragging himself across the street to meet the new neighbors? Lord my kids would have been yelling child abuse! LMAO
Lani It was just like are we there yet. Except it was, is it time to get up yet?
Zona waving at you! You get the night shift, I take the day shift! LOL
Ok I am going to lay down on goose down luxury!
I bet scrishy gets first in the morning because I may not want to get up!
Shirley I am staying out of your way! Sounds like you are organizing and decorating! LOL
ReplyDeleteZONA, as TINK would say, no worries. I will point it away from Phoenix.
ReplyDeleteA neighbor once borrowed my plunger and when they brought it back I put it in a plastic bag and bought a new one. Sure enough some time later they were back and I just gave them the one they borrowed before to use. The plumbing in that house had a history of backing up. If they weren't basically nice people I would have suggested that they purchase a plunger.
Lani, Zona, Mary, tinka and Lynn -
ReplyDeleteEXACTLY.....
Mr. Mek said to the young man (who, dragged his little sister along with him) - "I sure don't want that back tonight"..... he was trying to tell them to keep it, but the young man insisted that he would return it!! YUCK!!!
geez..... looks like we'll be going to WalMart to purchase a new one!! :-)
OKAY - back to our regular HAPPY BLOG!!!
Lani - that is a great idea - we'll save "theirs" and keep letting them borrow that one!!
ReplyDeleteBut - isn't that something that you should just HAVE in your home?
I can understand that now - they have tons of boxes to unpack - I'll be shocked if they ever have to borrow again.......
LYNN, your mailbox will be on my prayer list for tonight along with BON'S eye. Oh, I made a funny, BONSAI. :)
ReplyDeleteYes MEK , you are right. Maybe your neighbors will have better plumbing and not be scattered. My neighbors very nice, but totally scattered. It did kind of irritate me, so I was afraid after the first time if I said anything, it would come out sounding nasty.
ReplyDeleteSometime when we have a gross topic on the NEST I can tell you a really horrible plumbing story.
Lani - you could write a blog about it after the holidays!!
ReplyDelete:-)
oh - and mr. mek just said - NO we are NOT going to keep it.. and said he hopes that they don't become 'regular borrowers'.. i have to agree!!!
okay - back to wonderful Christmas memories...
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ReplyDeleteTinka - I have been trying to remember a perfect Christmas.. we have had some great ones..
ReplyDeletebut - the one that stands out - was last year - when my little brother visited with his family and I got to remember what Christmas was like thru a child's eyes.... I hadn't enjoyed the holidays for such a long time and it brought JOY back!!!
The best part - was listening and watching my brother read "T'was the Night before Christmas" to his son...... watching my nephew look up at his dad and be engrossed with every word...... it was magicial!!!!!!!
:-)
thank you for your blog today!!
Good evenong feathered friends!
ReplyDeleteTINKA...beautiful blog. Such lovely memories for you...and your children, too. I'm glad you are feeling better.
VIG...sorry you couldn't visit with Tinka today. Have a GREAT trip.
GOLDIE...sorry about the missing brownies **wiping chocolate from my mouth**
ZONA...crescent rolls today? LOL
LYNN...I do think you are a fashionista! Especially the purple hat and gloves!
LANI...I too have a GROSS plumbing story. If anyone remembers last November, they may already know it!
BIRDEE...when you are done with SANDIE'S house, wanna come to mine?
SHIRLEY...I recognize that evil laugh!
I don't celebrate Christmas, but I do remember being 5 thru 8 and spending Christmas Eve and then Christmas day at my best friends house. It was magical..the tree, the decorations and the pizza!
Lynn - enjoy that feather bed - you have me singing John Denver!!
ReplyDelete:-)
MO - waving howdy!!!
ReplyDeleteMEK, I could do that. I have also been thinking about one titled FOOT IN MOUTH. Things like when you make a joke about something and it turns out it is something true about the person etc. Then you feel terrible.
ReplyDeleteAsk Mr MEK if you should put the plunger out on the sidewalk and mark it free take me.
MEK...waving back attcha! Can I borrow a kleenex? LOL!
ReplyDeleteMO: I made crescent garlic bread!! It was really good! I have to start slow, ya know... ;)
ReplyDeleteOK...here's one for the books. I just opened a Christmas card from Mr. Z's Aunt...it was addressed to:
"Mr. Z and I can't remember your name..."
I will be under the bed if anyone wants me...geez...
MO, I would love to hear your plumbing story some time. Maybe all of us could have plumbing story day and who ever has the best story wins a brand new plunger.
ReplyDeleteDo you have any chanukah stories?
I hope Kgirl aka Kgel isn't stuck on a piece of ice.
Lani - he said - 'eeewwwwwww'...
ReplyDeleteokay - now you have TWO blogs to write - you better get busy!!
:-)
Zona - I'm sure she was just kidding!! right??!!! oh shit - I sure hope it's not the aunt you are going to visit!!! YIKES!!!
MO - LMAO - I will GIVE you a kleenex.. okay --
mr mek just said - OH LORDY, what have you started!!!!!
ZONA lmao, lmao, lmao. Maybe I shouldn't be laughing. Is she senile? That was probably a stupid question.
ReplyDeleteokay - 5th grader is coming on - I'll be checking in during commercials...
ReplyDeleteHey amigos...thanks for the fabulous holiday wishes!!!! Love it! I am getting really excited now! One more work day and am off to the airport the minute school is out! I will be dropping by the Owl Christmas Party Palace before I leave to say goodbye to my wonderful friends!
ReplyDeleteTink...great talking to you this evening! Hope you had a nice dinner!!!
buenas tardes
ReplyDeleteamigas
ReplyDeletecerveza
ReplyDeleteMEK: No, not that one..this is the youngest!! She said in the card she had just talked to his sister too..what, she couldn't ask??
ReplyDeleteLANI: Laughing is good, I'm sure I will as soon as I get over the surprise!!
guacamole
ReplyDeletetortilla
ReplyDelete169
ReplyDeletewoohoo...169
ReplyDeleteLANI...i think plumbing day would be a kinda shitty topic!! just sayin!
ReplyDeleteI have lots of Hanukkah stories and memories...50 years worth! One that kind of stands out is a few years ago. My friend Joni and I have been friends since 10th grade, yet I had only met her parents once or twice. Her mom always seemed very snooty and intimidating to me. She is a PhD and was the director of curriculum at the medical school here. Well, she invited me over for Hanukkah and I was SCARED!! Actually trembling as I walked up thier sidewalk! I ended up going and we developed a mutual adoration! She is hilarious and she and her dad have become kinda like parents to me. I have been invited to Hanukkah (and other holidays)there every year since then.
hey zona...you stepped on my sandals!!
ReplyDeleteVIG: SORRY!!!! I just saw the numbers...
ReplyDeleteZINA, ZANA, ZONO, ZENA...oh what the heck is your name????? bwahahah
ReplyDeleteMaureen..love your story! Don't you find sometimes that the things that you most don't want to do, turn out to be amazing! An interesting phenomenom!
ReplyDeleteMO: lol...now you know why the cards are still sitting here!! ;)
ReplyDeleteHey what's your name there in Arizona..just because I know you don't have big winter boots on there, I will pardon the stepping on the 169 toe!!!
ReplyDeleteGoing to the post office to mail a package. And you never know what might be there!!! BFN!
ReplyDeleteHi Mo! I hope you are going to stop by tomorrow for some special brownies and eggnog. **wink**wink**
ReplyDeleteI need to go to bed now.. Good night everyone. See you all tomorrow!
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ReplyDeleteMEK, I am looking forward to a Christmas like you had with your brother and nephew when my granddaughter is here.
ReplyDeleteMO, yours' is a wonderful Chanukah memory.
Yes, a topic full of dejecta!
I will miss you VIG.
G'night SHIRLEY!
ReplyDeleteI better go and feed my livstock.
ReplyDeleteHave pleasant dreams to all those who are going to bed.
Zona - As your mother I am insulted that the aunt didn't know your name. Send me her addy and I will scold her for you. I will have her write "Zona" out 100 times.
ReplyDeleteVIG - You are making me hungry. Can I come alone to Mexico with you? I will hide in your suitcase.
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ReplyDeleteMaureen - Thank you for the Hanukkah story. I loved it. I hope you aren't working too hard.
ReplyDeleteMary/MI, you have quite the memory! I'm still using the headphones, especially on airplanes. You'll love 'em!
ReplyDeleteJ/L: OMG! I know I shouldn't, but I LOL'd at "dispatched"!!
I'm writing this comment hidden away in my bedroom in the Manor. Not even Shirley and Carol know I'm here...
shhhhh !!!!!
Faith Hill is on PBS singing her Christmas songs..
ReplyDeletejust to let everyone know!!
5th grader was REALLY good tonight.
Mmmmm, did someone say guacamOLE'?
ReplyDeleteMO~~PLEEEEEZ, can we have a Hanukkah blog real soon? Triple-love the avatar!!
Hey, LynnD...what's this I'm hearing on NWCN about a major ice storm with winds up to 70-90 mph coming Saturday night/Sunday?? Just keeps getting better, doesn't it?
Tink/Lani~~no problemo, Bon'zai is fine :-)
Iteach~~Just a few more parties and you can relax!
Mary/MI~~You didn't tell Mr. Mary/Santa the reason you want the Bose earphones is to block out the 'snarts', did you??
BonO I hope your eye is okay. That's not the kind of twinkle you want in it.
ReplyDeleteMEK If you're inclined to give the new neighbors a house warming gift, I can think of a certain item you could "re-gift". LOL
Bear You can LOL all you want! :)
Zona You might have to forget to send that aunt a card this year. Just sayin'.....you have probably forgotten her address.
I'm baking cookies. It's the only productive thing I've done all day except have a long talk with Custard. BBL
BONO...hi! In answer to your question.....Mebbe!!
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ReplyDeleteMEK, I love PBS, I have been watching her while folding cloths and cleaning the kitchen. I have one of those under-the-counter tvs that will soon be going digital. Mr Mary has it hooked to an antenna. I do have the converter, just haven't hooked it up yet.
ReplyDeleteLynnD! LOL at your being in Mich! You must have by passed Kansas!
Lani~you said a funny!! BONSAI!!
No-Name-Zona, awh, who could forget such a sweetie!
Zona Zona Zona Zona!!!!
Vig, Have a cold Cerveza for me!
Maybe with a little lime!
Whabbear. After you got your earphones I went to "Best Buy" and tested them. I had to have them, but couldn't see spending that much money on myself. ok, that's a lie. I spend money on myself lol.
Just how long are you going to be hiding in the Manor? I'll be there soon, please don't scare me!!
I am off to bed. Thanks again owls for all your nice comments.
ReplyDeleteMek - It was always tradition in our house for someone to read "The Night Before Christmas". I think that's such a nice tradition.
I was half way through making my pastry for my mincetarts tomorrow. It calls for a beaten egg, and two tablespoons of vinegar in a cup of water. I got the Crisco nicely into the flour and discovered I had no vinegar. I used the last of it to clean my water dispenser. Does anyone have any suggestions? What if I used wine, or orange juice or maybe just left it out. I can't decide.
I will say good night and look for any advice offered in the morning. I certainly am not going out in this snow for 2 tbs of vinegar. I don't even want to walk to the neighbours on the ice that is out there.
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ReplyDeletejust lin - I told mr. mek that I would have to put a bow on it and "return" it to them - he didn't like that idea either!! oh well.....
ReplyDeletelooks like we are buying ourselves a new plunger..
Mary - I'm glad you are enjoying this with me - she is AMAZING!!
ReplyDeleteand - with your new windfall - you could visit AZ - the storm watch is over....
the weatherman was just yanking my chain!!
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ReplyDelete199
ReplyDeleteHAPPY DANCE!!!!!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteTinka - if memory serves me right (IBB will have to confirm) but my mom always was the one to read it to us......
ReplyDeleteVIG - Happy Trails... safe trip!!
ReplyDeletehave an adult beverage for me!!
My son-on-law, who is head chef at Berwick House, told me to substitute white wine for the vinegar. I will try that and then go to bed. Good Night again Friends. Stay Safe.
ReplyDeleteSure... you guys are all playing.. I am slaving over tomorrows blog...
ReplyDeleteAnd to top if off, I am starving.. I never ate tonite...
Going to find something to pick on..
Where is Birdee?
:O)
Mek - I think we took turns in our house. I don't know if my kids do it with their children. I must ask them.
ReplyDeleteTinka:
ReplyDeleteIt seems your blog, put everyone is a very good mood...
Lots of stuff happen in here...
Did I see Mo.. I sure hope so, as I have been sluggish on my stalking..
bbl
ReplyDeletecpgem - I'm just marching alone!! LOL....... I'm enjoying Faith Hill on PBS......
ReplyDeleteTinka.- yes - ask them - it is such a treasured memory!! In fact, my mom gave my brother the book for Christmas the year they had their first child, so that they could read it every year...