On The Lighter Side!

   Gifts of the holiday season do not always come wrapped in paper and topped with matching bows. At times, unexpectedly, we are showered with a moment that brings us more in a memory than any box could ever hold. Our six and a half year old daughter, Naomi, thinks holiday decorating is the highlight of the year. Last December she threw herself into every corner and hallway trailing garlands, bobbles and tinsel around our house for a week. Then, on the weekend, we began our traditional trek to the grandparents' homes to help with their decorating. Naomi was in her element helping her paternal grandparents, especially when it came time to set out her favourite part, the nativity scene. Even later, when we arrived in the door of my parents' home, I couldn't help noticing the sparkle in Naomi's eyes as she took off her coat and quickly assessed what was done and what still needed doing. She stared for a moment at the nativity scene already carefully set out. Her eyes were lit like moonlight on fresh snow when her excited voice suddenly broke through the family's casual chatter and she innocently exclaimed "Wow Grandma and Granda! I didn't know you guys had a Jesus farm too!"

Ruth Irving