For almost 18 or so years, I have baked ahead and put out trays of goodies to Lead Into Christmas. This is due to the fact so many people cannot face the “happy” season due to family losses, or perhaps a job lost or debt that seems unsurmountable. We used to host dinners every December 1 for about 10-12 people and as they were departing to go home, we would give them a tray.
I remember one gentleman standing up and saying ‘this is the first time I can face Christmas’ and then I knew I was on the right track.
I have given trays to West Jet personnel at the following airports to say thank you for all they do for people at Christmas (and other times): Kelowna, Penticton, Abbotsford, Vancouver and Nanaimo.
Thank you is such a simple gesture and always from my heart. These past two years have been totally unforgettable, especially now with the flooding in B.C.; fires this summer and other personal tragedies but I am now ready to disperse trays with an open heart and I hope you all now understand why we start early and I am not pushing the season too far in advance. Besides, I am now a much slower baker.
This year, for the first time in years, we did NOT use gift cards for our family. I said we were going to buy actual gifts. Well, I did and then on the News they stated 105 containers fell into the ocean and it appears that product is now not going to be readily available. I bought everything before all this happened and wrapped it all up before Halloween (did this for years in competition with my sister who really wanted to see if we could do it all before Oct. 31).
Blessings to everyone and I hope the sadness in your heart becomes a little lighter because of memories you have stored in your minds and hearts.
From our family to each of yours Merry Christmas and I hope a much healthier, saner, and financial recovery in the year ahead.
