Christmas 2011

To say that the last few weeks in December have been hectic is truly an understatement. I finished my COMM 505 class by the skin of my teeth (Dec. 18th we wrapped up), I moved physically to a new office space (Dec. 19 & 20th) but on December 21, none of that mattered as I headed back to Saskatchewan for the holidays.

Christmas was different this year and I can't quite put my finger on what made it so. There was just so much going on that quiet time with friends and family was appreciated so much more. Thank you to my wonderful family who always welcome me home with open arms no matter how long I've been away or how short my stay may be. You have always been there for me and it is YOU that I love spending the holidays with.

All the best everyone for a lovely holiday season and wishing you so much happiness, health and success in 2012.

Santa brought me a new bike!

My aunt and mom checking on the turkey

My cousin and grandfather playing the Irma Jean Waltz (named after my grandmother)

Winding down at work

The holiday hijinx continued last night as I was MC for my own work Christmas party. Each year the Wellness Committee within my faculty plans a great final wind-up for professors, students and staff before we all disperse for the holidays.

There was trivia, there was Christmas carol-oke (public health themed, of course) and delicious, nummy food. Many of our students have finished their studies and will be leaving the faculty forever which means it's always a bit bitter-sweet for me but I wish them all the best with their future endeavours.

Happy holidays all!

Me with my Committee peeps! I'll miss them

Merry Christmas friends!

It was an evening to remember ~ Christmas at the Harper / Lauder residence. We trimmed the tree, we decorated the house and we opened our doors to our friends for an evening of food, drink, laughter and music.

Thank you friends for making 2011 an amazing year. So happy to have you all together in one place for a night. I look forward to what 2012 will bring for all of us.