The Christmas that almost wasn't

Christmas Eve morning, I hopped in my truck, determined to make it to the post office to pick up an important package. I got about a mile down the road and had to turn back. The snow drifts made the road impassable. I was crestfallen. My friends from Morning Bray Farm were supposed to come over for Christmas and there was no way for them to get through. I would have to call them and cancel the Christmas festivities. Boy, was I bummed.

But when I got home, I talked to my neighbor, who mentioned he was on his way out to try and clear the road with his tractor because he had to go to work on Monday. He would let me know later that afternoon how far he got. Around 5:00, I reported to Justina and Don that they should be able to make it...but they might want to throw a shovel, some chains, and various assorted emergency gear in their truck just in case.

So Santa Claus wasn't the only one who was busy Christmas Eve. I stayed up all night plotting strategies for digging Justina's and Don's truck out of a snow bank. But I needn't have worried. They arrived safely Christmas morning, which was the best present of all. The sun was out, the wind wasn't blowing, and we were able to carry on and do what we always do when we get together...hang out with the herd, eat, drink, and be merry.

Lucy got what she wanted for Christmas – ear rubs from Justina.

Notice George and Alan patiently waiting to receive their butt rubs gifts.

George and Alan mistakenly believed Santa had brought them each a chair.

George gave Justina a hug for Christmas.

And Hank gave her a kiss.

Hank and Don both wore their finest Christmas bonnets.

Don had antler envy...

...so Hank agreed to trade for awhile.

Before we sat down to dinner, we went stalking the wild porcupine. 

We found plenty of tracks, but no porcupine.

Finally, it was time for dinner. Thanks for taking this photo, Justina.

The mint jelly got its own seat because I thought it was tacky have a jar on the table.

The food was plentiful and delicious, if I do say so myself, but it was not the highlight of the day.

After dinner, we went back outside to burn off some calories before dessert.

And who should we find?

Mr. P decided to join us for Christmas.

Photo by Justina.