December 22, 2019. Ancaster, Ontario. Open House.

The tradition is lovely. Dave and Irene have held an open house for the Buckley and Barby family the Sunday before Christmas. They have done it for over 40 years. My sister married a Baby so everyone from that family came along with all the Buckleys. Everyone would stop in to have a glass of wine and eat some goodies...and visit. The whole thing was pleasant. When Dave turned 80, my sisters son Peter and his wife Cindy offered to take over. Dave and Irene says YES. This afternoon, from 1 to 4, Peter and Cindy invited us all to the annual Christmas open house at their home in Burlington. I went with Dave and Irene, arriving just after 1:15. I was escorted into the family room and sat in a comfortable chair, where I stayed until we left for home at 2:30. Cindy brought me a glass of water. Wendy brought me a plate of goodies. And people came to sit beside me to talk. It was wonderful to chat with these good folks who I do not get to see any more. I talked with Marion and Gary for ages. I talked with Jennifer who I have not seen for 20 years. I had never met her husband Doug and they have been married 20 years. They both are RCMP officials. Jennifer is Marions daughter. I talked with Ben for ages. He is my sister Carol's son so I needed to catch up with his three children. And Peter, again a son of my sister, sat and talked with me for ages. Cindy checked up with me regularly to be sure I was OK, so I was well looked after. The dining room was full of young people but I stayed out of the crowds. I was happy to sit and talk. In addition, Cindy and Peter invite neighbors. The tradition has continued and I enjoyed every minute.