Happy Holidays, Chrismahanukwanzukah, Yupyup Xenu Day, or whatever it is that you celebrate I hope you have the best of it. (Add.: Best Wishes to my non-celebratory Witness friends too, no I'm not looking for a copy.)

This time of year usually means running around to all of the different celebrations to make sure that my cheerful, albeit tired, presence is felt by all. In 2008 I have and will be attending the celebrations of the McCartney (23), Gray (24), Balan (25), Aubin (25), and Gratton (26) families across four days. Each one is distinct and cheerful. Each one promises food and presents.

The McCartney and Gray celebrations are smaller and usually offer the largest share of food. Ususally followed by sleep, and lots of it due to the turkey.

The Balan celebrations are new, chaotic, and different. There are very few of the traditions of the other families at the Balan event. Although there are two distinct elements; Christmas snappers and prayer. Very different.

The Aubin Family Christmas is the largest event with more than twenty people in attendance it dwarfs even the Balan family (Balans had five children, Aubins had seven, and averages 1.7 grandchildren to each of those seven.) Some traditions existed and passed before the time I celebrated Christmas with the Aubin clan; remembering all those things is a part of the current event. Also, the Aubin family is collectively the most technically advanced. Family members have a professional background in photography, videography, construction, heating, plumbing, electrical, digital art, hairdressing (and removal), computer science, and some other interesting skills that add to the fun around the giftgiving season. They still expess sadness at the loss of their patriarch, colloquially known as Papere, and resident party animal Maurice "Mugsy" Aubin both of which passed away. However Mugsy lives on in us and his son Troy Neabel, father of the first great-grandchild in the family.

The last event of the season is the Gratton family luncheon on Boxing day. This celebration is very refreshing, a refreshing break from turkey and potatoes for a bit of soup and chili while catching up. Just as much a part of Welland's francophone community as the Aubin family they represent a quieter and reserved side of the culture. Since the passing of Grandma Adrienne and Grandpa Leo the family comes together under the direction of one of the aunts or uncles. Special recognition should be given to Madeline Garant, sister of Adrienne Gratton, who has been acting as family elder and laughing all the way through it.