Plans Abated - What else is new?

We delayed purchasing tickets to fly to El Salvador for December due to the fact that we were quite hopeful that Douglas would be getting a Visitor Visa for 1 year to return to Canada (and then of course be processed for PR status while in Canada) in time to be with us for Christmas.  We started the process in November - every time he went back to the Canadian Consulate in Canada he was told a different story and different paperwork thrown at him.  The Visa documentation I sent him on November 19th via GUARANTEED Canada Express Post NEVER arrived, despite having it traced! Goddess knows where that ended up.  Oh well, whoever has them - hope you enjoy the photos and magazines and fortunately the money order will be useless to anyone as it is addressed to "The Receiver General of Canada". 

So, he will return for the fourth time on Monday to apply for this Visitor Visa yet again - the first three visits he confirmed with the clerks that it would take only 5 to10 business days to process - unfortunately, on the fourth visit he was told their website was "wrong" and that it would take 4 weeks to process! Ay Carumba!

So, we are in a "holding pattern" for now.  I found great flights for January and February - but will wait to see if he is able to come back up here to Canada by beginning of February.

So, while his Christmas was very quiet in El Salvador - ours was very busy and loud with family/friends and lots of young ones running around - oh and lots of shopping marathons! Good times!!

A nice long paid break courtesy of the University was much appreciated! Love you McMaster!

Our little corner of the globe avoided any major snow storms - although all around us they were pummeled with the white flakes! We just had a bit of cold and very light dusting of snow and ice.

        Oh my! Avalon looks quite devilish!

                             Thumbelina needed a new jacket for the cold weather!  She doesn't like them!

                               But Thumbelina loves Avalon's sock monkey!

                                   Trinity is loving this artist - Angelina Wrona - from Ottawa!

                               Avalon is a tea fanatic so I couldn't resist this little novelty duckie that helps to seep the tea leaves into her tea!

                                Avalon joke at Christmas was "Oh, sorry I haven't shaved my legs today!" - she got these cool furry leg warmers from Santa.

                              Out for a brisk Christmas walk.