Merry Christmas to All

To family and friends around the world:

2011 is just a few days from ending and once again we have had a whirlwind year.  It seems I always use the analogy of a rollercoaster - perhaps a better one would be that we seem to be perpetual visitors at Canada's Wonderland or Disneyland USA - rollercoasters, drop zones, and ferris wheels are perennial favorites featuring the joys, fun and laughter on the upswings and stress-inducing, stomach flopping, eye-popping downturns from dizzy heights.

The upswings have included the joys of making it into the ranks of the permanently employed at the School Board, making new friends along the way, and learning more than I thought I ever could at my age.  Patrick slogged his way through another year and is one year closer to retirement - not too many to go now.

We survived a renovation and love living with the results. The house has been updated and modernized with new light fixtures, hardwood floors and a new stairway.  The bathrooms and kitchen have granite counters and all the rooms look fresh with a new coat of paint.  The only thing left on the wish list is a new front door.  Cleaning is a breeze and storage has been vamped up so that we even look more organized. 

A memorable holiday in Peru during the summer was spectacular - Machu Picchu was on the bucket list for quite awhile, but will now make way for a new adventure....yet to be decided.  Our choices are Australia or Annapurna or somewhere in Europe, but whatever the destination, it will have to wait for 2013 or 2014.  Next year will have us zooming off to the homeland in August en famille – all five of us which will make it a very exciting trip – we will most likely head for the Natal Zululand coast – hoping to spend time with as many of the family as we can and maybe taking in the sights like Oribi Gorge, and Aliwal Shoals.

Our girls are well and happy - Andrew and Tiffany bought their first home and have settled right in.  The fence is up, the painting is done and it looks lovely.  It suits the animals as well – now Wes (the very large German Shepherd) has plenty space to play.  Courtney made her first successful moves in life after years of school.  We are looking forward to hearing more of her exploits. 

To all of you, we wish a wonderful Christmas and may 2012 bring health, happiness and fulfill some dreams as well. 

Hoping to catch a glimpse of all of you along the way.

All our love 

Patrick and Cecily