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    • CommentAuthorLindylou*
    • CommentTimeDec 10th 2016
     
    I'll choose a room that overlooks the woods with the snow covered trees, the windows not quite sealed tight so they rattle a little bit in the wind, and an old fashioned hand quilted blanket made by some old great grandmother with a heart full of love. There's a braided rug too, I believe, that will keep my feet warm. Can't wait to sit by the fire.
    • CommentAuthorWolf
    • CommentTimeDec 10th 2016
     
    I did forget to mention the hot water bottles. For the younger set (ha!), that's a rubber bag thing you fill with hot water and screw in the stopper nice and tight and you stick it into your sheets near where your feet go. When you slide under the hand quilted blanket (are teddy bears ok?), you play footsie in the warm spot already there but keep your feet off the hot water bottle for the first half hour or so.

    So there you are snug under the blanket with warm feet listening to the slight rattle at the old window trying to realize that even while it's freezing out there, you have a warm and comfortable place to sleep and that that's going to continue. Some people need to have things taken away before they really appreciate them. I think I read that someplace. So I opened my window and screamed into the night "Ok! I get it now! I got it! You can bring her back now!" What must your neighbors think you might ask? They think I'm...unusual. They invite me over though because I'm entertaining and cheaper than cable.

    So I'm the only person in the world who tears up watching Scrooged. So what? Pan the camera out far enough and you see the little dutch boy with his finger in the crack in a Hoover sized dam. Oh oh.
    • CommentAuthorbhv*
    • CommentTimeDec 10th 2016
     
    Lindylou, count me in on the chopping. I like that part of cooking best. Especially fresh parsley. Looking forward to a new take on seafood stew or pie.
    Wolf, I think a sleigh ride on Christmas Eve sounds good. We better use those tartan blankets and bells so we don't risk losing white horses in the snow.
    Maybe I will put up a Christmas tree later.
  1.  
    I wrote a post and then lost it, I think. Oh well...was just stopping by for a quick cup of hot tea by the Christmas tree and a visit with Mousebane and Fluffy before I head back to my house. I have the kids after school and for some overnights while they finish up their school here before the holidays and while the new house is being set up by DD and ex-s-i-l. Just giving them hot dogs and beans tonight, with some fresh fruit and a cookie tray. I have two kinds of good homemade soup left over from the weekend, too, so we should be good. I drove past the old house, emptied out by the movers this morning. Felt bad, but oh well. DD does not share my culture, values, and code of ethics, and while I wish her well in all her new endeavors, this is hardly what we planned when we all moved to the Heartland from other states. My parents, grandparents, and Larry are spinning in their graves, I'm sure. So much for "family life." (Har, har, I laugh cynically.) Well, nobody can say I don't take care of my relatives. I'm looking forward to heading out--have a lot of plans for NY. If weather doesn't permit it next week, well, maybe the week after. I'm not driving 400 miles with my dog unless the roads are good. Right now it's like the house and yard are encased in ice. (Doesn't bother Bandit one bit, of course. That dog loves winter. If he wasn't only eight and a half pounds, he'd be pulling a dogsled in Alaska.) Wow, these candy canes are good--taste just like Crown Royal. Hmmmmm--I bet one of our Canadian friends made these.
  2.  
    Back again for another cup of tea by the tree. At home I have a houseful of relatives, so just need a fifteen-minute respite here at the Lodge. I love the soft snow coming down and the way it never ices up and gets slippery at the Lodge. And the way the Christmas lights are always on, and soft Christmas carols playing in the background. OK, I can't resist these pecan diamonds. Hope it's OK if I take a couple--they're so good--kudoes to whoever baked them. And the hot cinnamon spice tea is great. OK, boots and saddles. (i.e. hat, gloves, down parka, snow boots). Back to the trenches!
    • CommentAuthorcassie*
    • CommentTimeDec 22nd 2016
     
    Is there something stronger than tea, Elizabeth? I have come a long way and feel the need for a "stiff" drink and something good to eat. Any ham?
    It is nice to see you all, you are just as you have been pictured in my minds' eye.
    Thanks for the drink, cheers and I wish you all some happy moments here and when you go back to your own abodes.
  3.  
    Yes, full bar, Cassie. I'll slice you some of this good Virginia ham that somebody brought up. Why don't I just make us a couple quick mimosas--it's a little early for anything else. And I'll do some eggs to go with the ham. Bandit and my relatives are all still asleep, so I ran up here for a half hour or so before the day starts.
    • CommentAuthorLindylou*
    • CommentTimeDec 23rd 2016
     
    I'm arriving tomorrow. Ordered the fish and veggies for the Very British Sea Food Pie, lots of herbs too - plenty of fresh parsley. Will bring them with me, and if you still wish to chop, bvh, I'll certainly enjoy the company in the kitchen. After we've tucked this meal into the oven, I'm going to take a long walk and feel the wind in my face, making icicles in the corners of my eyes. I will have a couple of apples in my pocket for Daisy and Mae, and ask them how they feel about pulling the sleigh this year. And later if I'm able to get up without ruining it, you will see a snow angel marked in the snow. Haven't made one in years.
  4.  
    Just practicing Christmas carols on the piano up here. I like how it is impossible to make a mistake on the Lodge's piano. Everything sounds great.
  5.  
    I love listening to Elizabeth playing the piano. Its true, there are just no bad notes. I'll just sit by the fire and enjoy the music with my eggnog for a while. I'll offer to help in the kitchen a little later.
    • CommentAuthormyrtle*
    • CommentTimeDec 23rd 2016
     
    Just fixing myself a cup of hot chocolate, which I'll drink while listening to the music and warming myself before the fire.
    • CommentAuthorLindylou*
    • CommentTimeDec 24th 2016
     
    Just arrived. Found the door unlocked. Put the food in the refrigerator to put together later. What a beautiful fire. I'm sitting here in the silence with a cup of coffee in my hand watching the flames. Not wanting to wake anyone up. Just enjoying the little whiffs of smoke, the softness of the blanket wrapped around me, the blackness of the outdoors outside the window. If I doze off, don't be afraid to wake me. I'll be glad to see you. I've been anticipating being here for several weeks now.
  6.  
    I'm on the sofa with my feet up on the coffee table watching the darkness turn into dawn just outside the window. The white snow, the black trees starting to show up etched against the sky as it lightens to gray. I exchange a smile with Lindylou, but we are just sitting here peacefully enjoying the moment...not chatting yet.
    • CommentAuthorLindylou*
    • CommentTimeDec 24th 2016
     
    Going into the kitchen now and start chopping. Five kinds of seafood five kinds of vegetables and many herbs, all needing to be chopped. Its not exactly therapy. Its creativity that others can enjoy. Sort of like ice sculpture or Buddhist medallion sand art - created, enjoyed by all for a moment, then all that is left is the memory and the satisfaction. Will be serving it 5 PM anyone's time if you like sea food. It is sort of like shepherd's pie in that it has a potato crust and has a nice smokey taste from the smoked trout. You are all welcome to chop with me, if that is your thing. In any case I will be having a blessed time in this beautiful kitchen. The view is great from here too. I think I see some deer next to the woods. It was nice to just sit with you this morning Elizabeth, enjoying the silence.
  7.  
    The seafood pie sounds wonderful Lindylou. I am coming down from my room to help you chop. Such a gorgeous Christmas Eve! Love the snow falling. Thanks to whoever stocked up the fire again.

    Had a wonderful sleep here.

    I didn't know there were horses here until you mentioned it Wolf. I popped in to see them yesterday after unpacking. Such magical energy horses have. I love being around them.

    Hope some of us do go for that sleigh ride. Haven't been on one since 1982 in the Great White North of Canada.
    • CommentAuthorWolf
    • CommentTimeDec 24th 2016
     
    By a remarkable coincidence, Daisy and Mae are inclined to go for a saunter through the star filled fields and woods this very evening. They have their tartan covers and their bell harnesses and we have thick throws to cover our legs even though we'll need to dress warmly. Remember it's layers that keep you warm. If someone makes something warm to drink to fill our thermoses, we may even be lucky enough to see a glimmer of northern lights. At the least we will see all the little houses with their warm and inviting lights before we get back to the lodge and have our own feast of seafood pie and what not.
  8.  
    I've been walking for seven (hours, months, years?); I don't know how long in heavy snow up to my knees. I'm tired and cold and lonely. Could you steer the sleigh to the SE and watch for the big fir tree on the hill by the lake. I can see the lodge but cannot judge how far away it is. A ride and a helping hand up into the sleigh would be so welcome.
  9.  
    Sure, marche. Daisy and Mae are ready--I came up and brushed them, picked their feet, put a little Show Sheen on them. I didn't braid their manes and tails--thought their hair looked so gorgeous loose. They were outside this morning, but now that they're cleaned up, I'm leaving them in their stalls. I checked their tack (love, love, love the gentle jingling of the sleigh bells on their harness) but Wolf already had it gleaming. I see he uses Murphy's Oil Soap on it, just like I do.
    • CommentAuthorLindylou*
    • CommentTimeDec 24th 2016
     
    Ah. The Northern Lights. I'm crying with delight.I know there is no guarantee, but wow, that would be so wonderful if we see them.

    The Very British Seafood Pie is in the oven now. It will be ready whenever we are. Thanks all for your help. Many hands made light work. And what enjoyable company.
  10.  
    Yay!! A sleigh ride!! Awesome. The pie smells divine.

    What a glorious evening we have planned.
    • CommentAuthorbhv*
    • CommentTimeDec 24th 2016
     
    Lindylou you remembered extra parsley! My favorite thing to do. It is so much fun to be chopping everything looking out the window at the deer at the edge of the woods. I can't wait to find out how this seafood pie tastes.
    Let's go pick up marche while it bakes.
    • CommentAuthorWolf
    • CommentTimeDec 24th 2016
     
    The sleigh ride is scheduled for after eight
    So our western friends can participate
    It might be best to feast first then,
    And go on the tour afterwards, when
    The seafood pie and the all that comes with it
    Have disappeared and left empty dishes
    Then on with our mittens and coats fastened tight
    We can all go on the sleigh chasing northern lights.
    • CommentAuthorLindylou*
    • CommentTimeDec 24th 2016
     
    So dinner with friends and a sleigh ride at eight.
    I think this Christmas is turning out great.
    • CommentAuthorWolf
    • CommentTimeDec 24th 2016
     
    And so it was that they went out on the sleigh
    Some worried about how much we might weigh
    But Sven the horesman driving the thing
    Chuckled it could hold all we could bring
    The sleigh was forged in a meteorite shower
    And Daisy and Mae had enough horsepower
    And with a soft word in some unknown tongue
    The heavy horses snorted and pulled on the rungs
    And off we went with the greatest of ease
    Sliding behind them smooth as you please.

    It was crisp and cold on the tip of your nose
    And it took a while to warm under the throws
    But there was mulberry wine and cinnamon tea
    And quite soon the weather ceased to be
    Instead, we all watched the branches of trees
    Sliding by us through the many moonbeams
    As the moon shone down on the fields of snow
    All lit up in a soft silvery glow
    Diasy and Mae knew the way and were having fun
    They liked to get out for the ocassional run

    We crossed along an open field that ran along a hill,
    And far down in the dark blue, there was a little ville
    A cluster of lights shone down there, warm and inviting
    Making us wonder what tales they might be reciting
    All across the valley there were little isolated lights
    Showing where houses and farms were in the night
    All watched over by the man in the moon smiling
    At his soft, reflective glow, so clear yet beguiling
    We all felt it's presence so welcome and so serene
    Gliding with Daisy and Mae on it's smooth soft sheen

    We looked at the black, star filled night in wonder
    What did it all mean some of us pondered
    And some of us didn't so much wonder that stuff
    Perhaps we were here, and that was enough
    Though we looked, the universe wasn't up for lights
    Perhaps they would be out on another night
    And so we headed back to the warmth of the fire
    To eat and be merry, or so we aspire
    Perhaps, one day, there will be enough of that stuff
    Perhaps, then, we will be here and that is enough.

    For the time being we pulled up at the door
    And found out in the foyer our cold noses were sore
    Sven took the horses, unhooking the sleigh
    It would be fine there till quite another day
    We took off our coats and our snow covered shoes
    And headed for the fire perhaps for a snooze
    Our heads full of wonder at the world that is here
    Perhaps just one sip of some holiday cheer
    The answer to the question so deep in our bone
    Is that, no, my dear, we are not alone.
  11.  
    You probably don't have time, Lindylou, but if you do, could you post the recipe for the seafood pie? Or maybe tell us where to find it?
    • CommentAuthorbhv*
    • CommentTimeDec 24th 2016
     
    Oh my gosh, Wolf,I had no idea how to describe the delights of our sleigh ride and you drew a lovely picture in beautiful rhymes.

    "Perhaps we will be here and that is enough."
    • CommentAuthorbhv*
    • CommentTimeDec 24th 2016
     
    Elizabeth, I hope you don't mind if I play the piano for a bit. I have the most lovely arrangement of Away in a Manger.
    • CommentAuthorLindylou*
    • CommentTimeDec 25th 2016
     
    Haven't slept this late in forever. Was snuggled in a cocoon under a beautiful quilt dreaming of sleigh rides and sleigh bells and moonlight over bare winter branches and snow covered firs. Until the sun hit my face and I remembered where I was and it wasn't a dream after all. Or was it. Doesn't matter as long as it is real!

    Of course, Elizabeth I'll post the recipe, just as soon as I am home. Probably will post it under "Share Your Favorite Christmas Recipe". The one thing the recipe doesn't show is the many friends chopping together in the kitchen. I've now done it both ways. Your help was tremendous as well as great fun. And the added love and enthusiasm added more flavor to an already fine dish.

    Its late. If the coffee pot is empty by now, I'll brew a whole new pot for other late waker uppers.
    • CommentAuthorRona
    • CommentTimeDec 25th 2016
     
    Am I late? I slept in then woke to a beautiful sunrise, it rises later here, all of a sudden I realized I better get going didn't want to miss all of the festivities. Ran around looking for my gloves And typical could only find one! Put my boots on ran out the door and slipped on the ice, luckily didn't hurt anything. So I am finally on my way should be there shortly cannot wait to get there. I am bringing egg nog with something a little special to but in it. Oh I see the lights now and hear the laughter what a wonderful day this will be!
  12.  
    Try some of this raspberry reisling wine, made in the Grand River valley near Madison, Ohio. It's great with a Christmas cookie.
  13.  
    Good Christmas morning everyone.

    What a great poem Wolf! Beautifully captured our ride.

    Great you will post the pie recipe Lindylou. It was heavenly!

    Today, I can take a deep breath and just be. The frenzy of the season seems blessedly over and I can simply relax here with dear friends. I am going to get lots of naps between listening to wonderful piano playing and enjoying refreshments and catching up.
    • CommentAuthorJazzy
    • CommentTimeDec 25th 2016
     
    I just got back from having Christmas dinner with Kevan. I realized today that we have very little to talk about anymore. His world is there and I don't belong there. My world is waiting to see if he needs any help. To top it off , I just learned that my sons in laws were broadsided and she is in the hospital. Not sure how bad she is but here will be no Christmas celebrations there either. I will be happy when 2016 is gone.

    So here I am at the lodge. I brought a homemade pumpkin pie and some 35% organic whipping cream. This stuff stays whipped for days. Hope everyone enjoys.
    Thank you all for the lovely wishes. Much appreciated. Willy and Bandit seem to be having a great time chasing around from room to room. Watch out you don't get run over. He is enjoying himself. I was told not to take him to a dog park where there are big dogs as they may look at him as prey when he runs around. Scary thought.

    Okay what is planned for today's entertainment?
    • CommentAuthorLindylou*
    • CommentTimeDec 25th 2016
     
    There is so much food on the table - and company, always changing - and somehow dishes and pots and pans are all taken care of without any help from me. I'd feel guilty in any other place, I know. But today I just feel so relaxed guilt has disappeared all together. I have just enough energy, though, to go make that snow angel out in the back where the moon can shine on it between flurries. Been wanting to do it since I came. Jazzy, are you up for it? We could help each other up so as not to ruin the snow pattern. Then more eggnog in front of the fire. I was thinking about ice skating tomorrow morning before I leave. I'm way too stuffed now to consider bending down to lace skates!
  14.  
    Jazzy lets join Lindylou. I haven't made a snow angel in years. Will need help up :-)))

    Then how about a little walk to the barn to chat with the horses for a few minutes before returning to the cozy Lodge? Love there is enough of the great seafood pie left for dinner. And all the other food. Yum!

    Eggnog in front of the fire sounds divine.

    Besides the three of us is anyone else here this Christmas Day evening?
    • CommentAuthorcassie*
    • CommentTimeDec 25th 2016 edited
     
    Katherine, I am here and we are having a heatwave (40c) so I really want to do a snow angel with you all.
    And if I could take the next sleigh ride as well, I would be very happy!
    • CommentAuthorJazzy
    • CommentTimeDec 25th 2016
     
    Sounds like fun. Haven't done that in years. Who is going to pull us up on our feet? Better be a big strong handsome guy. Right gals?

    I will be happy to share in the egg nog for sure.

    I am really happy to be here with you!

    Hugs

    Jazzy
  15.  
    I laughed out loud Jazzy with your comment "Who is going to pull us up on our feet?"

    Maybe we can do the angels individually and there are three others to get each of us on our feet. Wouldn't that be something to video tape? We would need a 5th person to do that. I hope we end up in hysterics of laughter. Been years since I was in that state :-))

    Me too Cassie for another sleigh ride. Last eve's was awesome!! I am here till after New Year so lets get another one going.

    Now though Christmas night. It is 5:30 pm here in B.C. Canada so is this a good time to head out? I think others are further east so later in the evening. Bundle up and lets keep warm. Here we go!!
    • CommentAuthorLindylou*
    • CommentTimeDec 25th 2016
     
    I have not laughed so hard in I can't remember when. My goodness. What the world would think of us if they could see us now. Icy snow down my neck. My boot coming off. Three people helping be back up to my feet! But what a snow angel! And yours are just as beautiful. Is anyone up in the lodge looking at us four old ladies being so intentionally foolish? If so, come down and join us. We are really a lot. But for a moment I feel like nine years old. And I'm laughing like one.
  16.  
    YES!!! To the snow angel ladies! SO great to laugh again so hard!

    Nice to get in by the fire and how delicious is this egg nog!! Let alone left over dinner. Magnificent!!

    I wrote years ago I wouldn't have made it through Christmas without this Lodge. I am a little bit healthier now thankfully and can enjoy it.

    Love and peace to all of you. Tears streaming down my face - thank you for being here with me!
    • CommentAuthorRona
    • CommentTimeDec 25th 2016
     
    Wait for me I was in the barn when you were doing the snow angels but I am definAtely by the fire for some egg nog. Boy that fire is warm I hope I don't fall asleep and start to snore.
    • CommentAuthorbhv*
    • CommentTimeDec 25th 2016
     
    Maybe I am too late. Those snow angels sure are pretty! I got overheated putting all the Christmas stuff away at home. Enjoyed the walk through the snow and moonlight over here. Toying with spending a little time in the spa. See the steam rising. It's always luscious to relax in the warm water surrounded by the snow. Hope that cozy little room on the top floor with the skylight and the white quilt with little lavender roses is available tonight. Don't worry if I don't say anything. It is nice just listening to the laughter.
    • CommentAuthorbhv*
    • CommentTimeDec 25th 2016
     
    Oh check it out. My brother made my Mom's recipe of date nut bread. With some cream cheese and apricot jam. Yummy.
    • CommentAuthorLindylou*
    • CommentTimeDec 25th 2016
     
    Hi bhv. So great you could make it! I'll have a little nut bread with you before I turn in. Didn't think of the spa at all when I came in all icy from the snow outside. Now I'm snug and warm and tired. And my face feels good from smiling so much. I'm grabbing one of the hot water bottles for my bed so I don't have to warm the sheets with my body heat tonight.
    • CommentAuthorLindylou*
    • CommentTimeDec 25th 2016
     
    bhv, didn't realize the hard journey you had before you came out here until I read it in another discussion. The spa will help for sure. The fireplace burns all night. I checked and your room with the skylight on the top floor is waiting for you. Grab a hot water bottle before you go up. I've got one too. Did Xena come with you? There are enough animals here to fill a zoo, but they are all getting along and provide a lot of entertainment. I'm not an animal lover particularly, but I found myself stroking somebody's cat who had crawled up on my lap tonight. Its purring vibrated my whole soul and I needed that. The trenches have been hard for me too this holiday. But I have spent a good portion of my holiday time here. I'm leaving late tomorrow, but coming back for New Year's Eve weekend. But I'll get to see you more tomorrow I'm sure.
  17.  
    I put the coffee on and set out some cups. Had to look at those snow angels--used my flashlight so I could see them--beautiful! You guys are too much! You are all still asleep, but I'll just sit by the Christmas tree and have my coffee before I head back to the madding crowd. Just wanted a moment of peace and beauty before the day's craziness starts--still have a houseful of relatives.
    • CommentAuthorLindylou*
    • CommentTimeDec 26th 2016
     
    Elizabeth, Mind if I join you. I smelled the coffee and it drew me downstairs. I am going out to skate after breakfast. But right now I'd like to just sit with coffee and quietly enjoy the dawn.
    • CommentAuthorJazzy
    • CommentTimeDec 26th 2016
     
    This has been so much fun with lots of laughs. Thanks to everyone. Are we having a New Year's Party?
    • CommentAuthorWolf
    • CommentTimeDec 26th 2016 edited
     
    The lodge traditionally stays open until after new years.

    Good coffee. Merry Christmas Charlotte. Sorry you couldn't make it this year.
    • CommentAuthorLindylou*
    • CommentTimeDec 26th 2016
     
    marche, I know the gang went out and collected you. What a hike you had. Sorry our paths haven't crossed yet. You free to come sit by the fire?
  18.  
    Yes, Lindylou, they found me half-frozen, buried in a snowdrift, and pulled me up into the warm sleigh. I don't remember much other than a mug of steaming hot chocolate put in my freezing hands, a warm bed, and someone even helped me out of the wet frozen clothes. When I woke up 18 hours later, lovely new boots and dry clothes were laid out in the room. It made me feel so loved. I will be downstairs in a few. . . after I dry my tears of gratitude.