Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas!

The wonderful day has finally arrived! All the many tidbitz preparations for one day! However, it is the most important day of the year; as it is the Celebration of Jesus Christ's Birth! This year we are more thankful than ever! Methinks, with the Global financial crisis & credit crunch, people are placing more meaningful value on God, family and friends, than on material things and the purchasing of several expensive gifts. Gifts are naturally appreciated; however, when one gives 'from the heart', particularly when 'times are tough', ie home made gifts, inexpensive gifts, home made goodies, etc; that is just as lovely! However, the greatest Gift of all, is the Gift of Grace from Him and of Everlasting Life, when you accept Him into your heart.

We will be cooking our 13 pound turkey in the next short while; at a temperature of 325 F degrees, so that it can baste in all its glory for approx 5 hours! Mmmmmm. The delicious smell too, will permeate throughout our home! Alan does a very tasty Scottish Oatmeal Stuffing as well as whipping up a savoury mashed potato dish; and I will provide the rest - ie. gravy, and brussel sprouts, etc. The cranberry sauce is already made; nothing like home made cranberry sauce! We will enjoy tid leftovers, ie turkey and cranberry sauce sandwiches! As per an earlier bit post of Dec 15th, my son loves roasted almonds; so a large jarful is awaiting him!

We will also do a very special 'Skal to Absent Friends'- a Norwegian custom, to toast those that have either passed away; or those living, but not able to be physically present. One generally never says who they are 'drinking to'; however, I will be honouring my parents; Alan's Mum, as well as my son's Grandmother. His Grandmother, my ex-mother-in-law, was a lovely woman; and we were good friends.

'Absent Friends' can be a 'Skal' or a toast to anyone! ie Soldiers too, who have either given of their lives for our country, or perservering in the fight for our freedom! Whomever, comes to your heart! 'Absent Friends' provides a bit of comfort and 'grit'. Perhaps those who are unable to be with their loved ones for this Christmas, may receive encouragement from a Skal of 'Absent Friends'. I will also be remembering Alan's Dad; who currently resides in an Old Age Home. Alas, it would appear that he has been 'brainwashed' by Alan's siblings; as per their 'words, actions, and deeds'. Nonetheless, Merry Christmas to them, 'Absent Friends', and May God touch their hearts. (You can refer to earlier posts if you wish some bittid background).

We watched a couple of movies last night. One of them, was 'Christmas Eve'; and it is a most heartwarming tale of a family that is finally reunited at Christmas. Loretta Young,(her first appearance since 23 years - good on her! We like her!) who was the grandmother, was the one who brought back genuine harmony to the family. I recommend the movie as a 'tidbit'; as it may give you a bittidz uplift and help work out any family strife or discord.

Love the above photo image! Once again, here is wishing you all a very Merry Christmas, and "Skal" to 'Absent Friends'.

God Bless.