Wednesday, December 24, 2008

A white Christmas!

I arrived safe and sound here in Canada several days ago. It was a huge shock to the system as it was -25 degrees Celcius when I arrived and there was a significant amount of snow on the ground! Camelia picked me up from the airport with a winter jacket and many warm clothes for me to wear. My suitcase was pretty much empty on the way here as my sandals and tank tops would hardly suffice! Luckily, my friends have lent me sweaters, winter boots, etc so that I do not freeze my butt off!

It has been wonderful to see everyone and I have been very busy since I arrived trying to meet up with all my friends. My first night back, my friends had a welcome home party for me with lots of lovely food (including my favorite Crave cupcakes) and wine. We had a great time and had many laughs reminiscing about old times. A big thanks to Camelia again for organizing the party and making sure I was all set with warm clothes and all my favorite things! I also want to thank Lenise for letting me crash at her house! It is so surreal to be back here in my old place.

Since I have arrived, we have been going out to different restaurants and enjoying all those culinary delights that I have not had in quite some time. My first morning back, we went out for one of my faves - Dim Sum. Since then, we have gone out for Vietnamese food, Ramen noodle bowls, and last night we had some friends over and Camelia and I cooked an organic turkey with yams, potatoes and then enjoyed Saskatoon Berry Pie for dessert from the farmer's market. Next on the list is Thai food, Indian food and of course, Alberta beef! We are planning on doing a prime rib roast for New Years Eve. Hmmmmm........

I have been taking lots of photos of all the food and all my friends but unfortunately, I forgot the cable to transfer them to my computer. Oops! I will definitely post all the photos when I get back to Mexico.

Today, I am back on the road and am taking the bus to Edmonton to spend Christmas with some family. I am really looking forward to seeing them and catching up. Then, I will be back in Calgary for the rest of my stay. I feel so fortunate to be here and definitely have many things to be thankful for this holiday season. A big shout out to Camelia and all my wonderful friends who made this trip possible! I love you guys.

I also want to wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season. I hope you enjoy every moment with friends and family.

7 comments:

Steve Cotton said...

OK. Important question. What are the dgs doing in your absence? Be certain to greet BoBo on behalf of Professor Jiggs. You can forego the usual dog greeting customs.

New Beginnings said...

My friend Shelley has generously offered to look after them for me in Manzanillo. I will definitely pass along a hello on behalf of your retriever!

Anonymous said...

glad to hear you're having such a great time. i arrived safely in miami last night. we went in opposite directions as i left the snow behind and you went to it. we've had lots more snow since i left-it's amazing for that part of washington.

enjoy the rest of your time with family and friends.

teresa

Unknown said...

saw Jade at Oasis the other day and she was doing great, albeit a bit hyper as usual but your "pet sitters" have a good handle on the situation ;) enjoy the cold and snow!

Anonymous said...

Just wondering if you're enjoying the climate in Calgary; and when you will be back in Manzanillo? Matthew and I will be there in February; and look forward to hearing more about your experiences and observations of the area. Happy New Year. Ben

New Beginnings said...

Hi Ben

I am actually back in Manzanillo now, just have not had a chance to blog since I have been home. That is wonderful news that you are coming. Are you going to La Manzanilla to see the family?

Anonymous said...

I've never had the pleasure of meeting the Brambilia family, so I intend to drop by and say hello. I will be stopping by La Catalina first to drop some items off, so they can give me directions. Glad to hear your back home safely. Take good care. Ben