Sinter Klaas is Near

Dear Friends, the weather is crisp and blue these days. Joy bubbles up in my heart as I remember days like this 13 years ago in Sweden. (As I write that number, I have to pause and check my dates because my mind cannot grasp that length of time passing. It feels like just a moment ago.) I walk before dawn, hearing nothing but the crunch of my steps on the gravel road just like many paths trod in forests far removed from our little Ontario township.  Memories are so sweet and fragrant to the soul, are they not? God has blessed us with the ability to travel back in time to recount the joy he has brought us before.  Bringing hope of joys yet to come. 

December brings Sinter Klaas day for us, and many preparations for the season.  Here are some photographs for you to enjoy.  Creativity abounds. 

M with her beloved penguins. She is slightly obsessed with this bird.  If you can tell. Sugar cube igloo and gumdrop penguins were a big hit.

 Darling J with her cozy cabin, complete with sauna this year! Don't you just want to make a reservation and stay there for a night? Skates are waiting at the front door, you can take a turn about the pond before settling in!

 Silly S, he doesn't follow a design, although if he had to pick a title for this one I would suggest "The Storm of '98" or something of that nature.  Wouldn't  you say it looks a wee bit as though hydro lines have fallen along with some birch trees? He calls it the "I Spy" house.

See you again soon!