Christmas 2008

This Christmas was wonderful and we were so grateful to have so many family members with us-it was great that Emily and Oliver could fly in from California-although we sure did miss Peter, Lil Pete, Matt, Jamie, Joe, Lil Joe and Lil Sally- but we spoke of them often and they were in our hearts and thoughts the entire time.

I arrived on the 21st and Mom and I immediately painted the mdf around the Murphy bed and then Dad, Mom and I enjoyed a few days trying out several restaurants for lunch (where and who smashed the car bumper we don't know!!). We also had a wonderful dinner that Joe and Arleigh treated us to overlooking the lights at Temple Square-(picture) beautiful, beautiful view. On the 23rd/24th we were busy cooking a turkey, slicing a ham (Thank you Aunt Susan, John & Becky ) to help get ready for the fun Christmas Eve bash that Arleigh always puts on. Christmas Eve day, Mom and Dad and I continued a "tradition" of having lunch at Bambara the restaurant at Hotel Monaco- it was lovely and something I look forward to as we did same (Christmas Eve luncheon) each year in Florida.

That evening was wonderful- especially once Maureen arrived from work and as we were all hoping Patrick could get there earlier than expected.... Just like Santa- he arrived early and just in time to enjoy the festivities and be with all. Our annual pass the gift game, that Molly and Jay began 3 years ago, started the festivities and then the gift opening began...it was great this year as each family opened their gifts one at a time so everyone could enjoy and see what everyone got each other. Pictures of the festivities are below.

Nana and Grandfather gave extremely memorable gifts- a CD that Nana's father had recorded about a canoe trip he took when he was 16 and spent one night with the Indians- the CD cover has a picture of Nana and Grandpa Waters on their 50th wedding anniversary. Mom (Sally/Nana/Great Nana) gave each family, a Christmas ornament (thanks Molly!!!) that has been on our "memory" Christmas tree, and wrote a story of the meaning of that ornament...it was a huge hit and I told her she needs to continue that- even if her tree becomes bare as there are such wonderful stories behind each ornament. It was hard for her to part with them but the reaction from each and everyone was over-whelming and was a hit..both mom and dad were very touched how everyone loved the stories and the ornaments. Isn't it nice to share the memories and the stories behind them...giving something like that is really the spirit of Christmas isn't it?

And speaking of sharing something personal our resident professional Scrap Booker, Molly, once again gave the most meaningful gift of all...a "Happiness Is" book that she created and everyone of the Heagany family contributed to it. I have read it cover to cover numerous times and each time find something new about each of my family members...it is lovely and something we will all treasure forever...while of course asking for more!!....no pressure Molly!!

Thank you to each of you for a wonderful Christmas...even those that couldn't be with us in person... Peter, Lil Pete, Matt, Jamie, Joe, Lil Joe and Lil Sally...Molly made you all come to life with her book.

Happy New Year to all of you and thank you for making me feel like such a wonderful daughter, sister and Aunt...I love you all and the memories from Christmas 2008 will be with me forever.
xoxo
mh