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Tis’ the season

 

#respecttheoldseekoutthenew2022

"Maybe Christmas doesn't come from a store. 
Maybe Christmas perhaps means a little bit more."

I still remember some of the Christmas gatherings we had as children. 
There were quite a few times when we would hop in the car and travel several hours to visit our grandparents, aunts and uncles, as well as our cousins. 
We use to really look forward to opening gifts on Christmas eve and/or on Christmas morning. 
Above all though, when I think back, the best part of the winter holidays was definitely spending time with one another.

The last Christmas we all spent together was in 2015 I believe.

As we've grown older and the family dynamics have changed (passings, relocations, marriages, babies, job commitments, goals and dreams...), Christmas gatherings have become more challenging and unfortunately less frequent. 

This holiday season, I could've remained in Dubai, as I've done on a few prior occasions, or of course I could have travelled to a new destination on my 'wish list', but I decided that ultimately, I just wanted to spend some time with family...and relax!

First, I headed to Canada where I got to spend time with my parents, as well as my youngest brother, sister-in-law and niece. I also had the opportunity to catch up with a close friend, watch lots of Christmas movies, do a few low-intensity gym sessions and 'enjoy' the colder weather with a dusting of snow.

My parents and I.

My brother, sister-in-law and niece opening gifts.

I was hoping for a white Christmas.

Next, I made my way to Germany to visit with my other brother and his family. While I was  there, I was lucky enough to catch 2 of his hockey games, which is something I have missed quite a bit while living abroad the last 10 years.

My brother, sister-in-law, niece and nephew after an epic hockey game.

Landshut, Germany.

Busy bodies.

It wasn't a whole family gathering like we once knew, nor was it a typical holiday for me, as I would usually want to keep myself super busy and do lots of exciting things, but believe it or not, I truly enjoyed the break from my usual routine, the 'down time' to rest, reflect, reset and recharge, and of course all the moments spent with each of my family members.

"Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!"

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