Santa comes to the Lakehouse

Our Janzen gathering was held at the lake again

as has become tradition.

We had no snow on the ground, but the view across the lake was amazing!

We got there early to set up extra tables in the garage.

As our family grows, we find ways to make room.

Monika had the turkey cooking and we enjoyed the quiet,

peeling potatoes and enjoying the anticipation of every one's arrival.

Dinner was a wonderful time to catch up ...

It was the first time I met my twin great-nieces from Seattle.

After dinner the kids shut themselves in the upstairs rec-room

and told us not to come in, as they practiced a play.

Out of the mouths of babes ...

we saw the familiar story acted out ...

Joseph and Mary with baby Jesus,

the angels, the shepherds and the wise men.

This was followed by a story and some carol singing

and then Santa showed up!

What a surprise! 

Kristal sent me a video that I, for some reason, cannot load ..

but there's me, laughing/giggling all the way. 

Santa's voice sounded so familiar! 

Fourteen out of Oma's twenty-five great-grandchildren were there.

We missed a few local ones (including Jack) most due to sickness

and the seven overseas ... in Victoria and Indonesia.

This is a time when we make a conscious decision to

keep meeting, even when Oma and Opa cannot be there anymore.

I visited my mom the following day and had her listen to the songs.

She does not focus well on photos, but she can hear well.

I told her that we will keep meeting 

and she communicated with a look of joy in her eyes.

A picture that speaks volumes. 

Wishing you and yours,

this peace and joy that only Christ can give. 

Merry Christmas!

♡♡♡