MERRY CHRISTMAS IN PARIS

horses and sleigh and went to church in the afternoon. ~Muriel. G, Park Lane Terrace

9. The best thing about Christmas is watching the kids open gifts. I love the look on their faces when they see everything under the tree. ~Ann. S, Park Lane Terrace

10. Christmas has always been a celebration of Jesus. When I was a child, we went to church on Christmas Eve The hymns and carols were magical to all of us. The greatest thing about Christmas morning was my stocking It always had a clementine, hard candy, and nuts. As my mother cooked the meal, our home smelt so good. Our family would join together for the greatest meal. I looked forward to these things every year ~Jean N, Park Lane Terrace

11 We had no electricity so we would decorate the tree but no lights. There were 11 children. Our parents would put homemade gifts, such as mitts, in random spots in the tree and we would just reach into the tree and take something. Our whole meal was cooked on/in a wood stove. We always took the

12. Christmas for me means family The birthday of my mother and my second daughter who decided to come early on the 23 rd instead. Getting together with family at this time is a way to celebrate the birth of our religion with the Holy family and give thanks for all our blessings The meaning of Christmas is in the giving NOT the getting, and in sharing traditions, whatever they may be ~Julia B, Queensview Retirement Community

13. Christmas is about giving and receiving gifts. It is about spending time with family and having big dinners ~Lena, Queensview Retirement Community

14 Christmas to me is a time to start early baking. Making Christmas cake, puddings, and minced meats in October, and wrapped in cheese cloths, kept in a crop, and moistened with rum. A time to look for the special gift for everyone in the family I especially like decorations on homes and in our house, so pretty with snowfall. It’s a time when our family got together and brought our grandparents and everyone that could come. Most of all, Christmas Eve in our church, a candlelight service, and the carols ~Marion, Queensview Retirement Community

15. Christmas means many things to me; the memories, the moments, and most of all the love I treasure the most. How children’s eyes light up when they see lights everywhere When the tree is up, lights on, everyone helping, ornaments, the angel gets put on top. It’s beautiful they all say. Adults now, its still beautiful. This is my moment. For years, our home was welcome to everyone on Christmas Eve Family, old friends, new friends. A guitar and a violin playing, it was so joyful and beautiful This is one of my best memories. Another memory was making candy houses for my children’s schools, friend’s children, I loved seeing them so happy. I have my moments, memories, and my heart is full of love Merry Christmas and love to everyone. ~J, Queensview Retirement Community

Caroline Casey's endeavor to unite seniors in the Paris community during the Christmas season has undoubtedly brought immeasurable joy and warmth into the lives of these cherished individuals As she continues to spread the spirit of Christmas, her commitment and dedication serve as an inspiration to us all

As the holiday season unfolds, let us remember the sentiments shared by these seniors and cherish the true meaning of Christmas - the joy of giving, the warmth of family, and the love that binds us all together.