Hi everyone! Merry Christmas!

Q4 2013 was exceptionally busy and filled with travel so that’s why I dropped off the face of the planet.

Like every year, I had big plans for my much anticipated Christmas break. The Urban Farm is in shambles after our ice storm at the beginning of December so i was going to clean it up. Same with the container plants and front yard.

No dice. It must wait.

The lesson of this Christmas is to be still, to be patient, to let others do everything.

You see, I’ve broken my tibia. I wish I did it in some glamorous way, skiing triple black diamond runs in Vail, snowboarding in Lake Louise, or even shoveling elderly neighbors’ driveways in Toronto (many people there are still without power).

But truthfully, it was during last Sunday’s morning walk. It was not icy. It was completely dry. We went a different way than we usually do since we saw a woman with two large dogs looking nervously at the 4Gs. And I stumbled on uneven pavement and fell down in incredible pain.

Of course, after sitting for a few minutes, I got up and finished the walk. But two hours later I asked Bruce to drive me to the closest urgent care clinic.

I’m sitting here with a bag of ice on my foot. I have a big boot I need to wear for 4 weeks and crutches. Near the end of the day brings more inflammation although I’ve spent most of the past few days on the couch with my foot elevated. It’s not fun. But it’s a sign I think: to slow down, to enjoy the little things, to appreciate the things I take for granted.

So my wish for you (and me) this Christmas season is to appreciate. Enjoy the treats and once-a-year delicacies. Move and enjoy your body. Love the ones your with and those far away. Treasure your memories and reflect upon them.

Merry Christmas to you and yours. Hug your dear ones tight!

Speaking of dear ones, the Gs had some pals visit this afternoon so today’s gratuitous dog photo isn’t as lively as some:

The extra dog closest to the camera is Zak. As you can see, they had quite a Christmas play date!