Kuenzli Christmas

 
In order to arrange to get all the Kuenzli clan together, plans have to be made in advance and usually, Christmas is celebrated early. Tim (Jake's Dad) has a very busy season, including 4 services on Christmas eve, and Val (sister-in-law) is a resident and also splits her time between work and her mothers. So, this year, we celebrated on the 21st, after church. There were 8 adults, 1 baby and 4 dogs. It was hectic to say the least, but lots of fun.

Gift giving was different this year. The Kuenzli's decided to adopt 2 kids who are in foster care who would normally not receive much. Jake and I got a whole bunch of money, a bunch of details about the kids and off we went on a shopping spree. We actually did quite well (things are real cheap down here) and hopefully there will be some smiles on Christmas morning.

As a result, our tree was less filled with gifts which was nice. We had more time to appreciate what we did have, and spend more time together, less time ripping open gifts. Don't get me wrong, I too love the gifts, but this was really nice.

You will see I have few photos of anyone but our darling niece Madeline who of course is the center of attention. She is beautiful, growing so much (5 months old) and is such a joy. She giggles and makes tons of noise, is getting really strong and has started eating cereal. Kids grow so fast, it's amazing.

Other news, Toby (who will shortly be renamed) is in the shop, undergoing a complete engine overhaul. For those of you who know Westies, her head gaskets were leaking coolant, meaning they needed to be replaced. An expensive endeavor as it was, so we decided with all the other problems, and overhaul, though more expensive, was a worthwhile investment. We will be able to travel with a better conscience and hopefully, less problems. This was confirmed a couple days later when another problem we had been having, rod knock, became infinitely worse with our oil pressure light buzzing, and we could not drive the van at all. It was a tough pill to swallow, but we are now moving forward, much poorer, but looking to a new name, a new year and hopefully, a less eventful 2nd leg of the trip.

On the 26th, after spending Christmas day with Linda's side of the family (7 siblings and their offspring) Jake and I will fly home for a couple of weeks in Montreal. We can't wait to see all our friends. Then, back to the states for some more traveling over the winter and spring.

And other good news, Jake was approved by Immigration, so when we fly in to Montreal, he will have his landed immigrant Visa and we will be legal!

Hope everyone enjoys a wonderful holiday season...

Kim, Jake and Whipper

http://picasaweb.google.ca/tjkuenzli/KuenzliChristms2008