I’ve been “on vacation” from work since Tuesday, officially, but it turned out I had a little work to do almost each day. I didn’t take Friday as a vacation day because Fridays are only half-days at work, so I didn’t want to waste a v-day on a half-day. So I did my little bouts of work each day, and the was off to visiting some of my friends and to spread a little holiday cheer.
On Monday when I dropped off my work to Computer Composition (the typesetter we use), I brought along a tin full of Christmas cookies and treats, along with a card thanking everyone there for their hard work. I also dropped a tin at one of the employee’s homes in Bowmanville, since she’s offered many times to shuttle my work back and forth to Whitby, which is, indeed, far above and beyond the call of typesetting duty.
Tuesday I met up with Tamara for a coffee and brought a tin of goodies for her and Carys, too. Then I went over to Vicki’s, and she and I exchanged little gifts. I brought her a pretty little candle holder with a glittery dragonfly that made me think of her immediately when I saw it in the store. I brought Sabrina the little hat I’d knit for her, and it looked so cute on her! It was a little too big, but at least she’ll get some wear out of it. Vicki gave me a warm blanket that’s the exact colour of green she knows I love. It’s perfect for cat naps. Then Vicki and I went over to Jack Astor’s for supper.
Wednesday I went to Toronto for some knitting with Gayla and Sarah. I arrived bearing cookies again. Sarah had a box of Spiced Tea for me and Gayla had made a cross-stitch bookmark kit for me. I was really touched to have been thought of by these two extraordinary women I’ve come to know this year.
Gayla and Davin and I walked over to the Drake Hotel for some supper. As a bonus, I was pleased not to have received a parking ticket out in Parkdale. (Incidentally, spending an evening in the city was so good for my soul! Sometimes I really miss living in Toronto. I didn’t get to see the Eaton Centre or the Bay’s Christmas window this year.) I drove next over to Renee & Scott’s to deliver more treats. Kiely got up out of bed while I was there and I was rewarded with her saying, “You get a hug and a kiss because you are such good!” She’ll be three on January 6. I left there with such a warm feeling in my heart.
Thursday Mom and I met up for lunch at Shoeless Joe’s and then went to see “The Family Stone”, which seemed from the previews like it would just be a Chrismtas comedy, but turned out to be the ultimate crying movie featuring (spoiler alert) a dying Diane Keaton as the mother.
I am so happy and fortunate to have so many wonderful women friends in my life. I’m really glad I made a conscious effort to see the people I care about around the holidays. There are still some people to fit in today, too.
Today we’ll be making the rounds at a few houses and then tomorrow we’ll be hitting Elaine’s, Mom’s and Dad’s, in that order. Boxing Day is just. for. us. Can’t wait!
Merry Christmas everyone! Be good and be safe. xo
Um, I should clarify that Diane Keaton isn’t dying. Her character in the movie was. ha