Friday, January 01, 2016

sweet 16

The advent calendar is all filled up... Christmas has come and gone in the twinkle of the eye and we now look onto the new year.  2016..... "sweet 16"  which already has it promises of an exciting year!!! We have some big events on the horizon and of course smaller ones as well.. and the ones we don't know of yet. But i look forward to the happy year and all the things it has to show us. 
It has become somewhat of a tradition to have an open house here, and with the snow from a few days ago, and the winter winds on the quiet side... not only will there wonderful treats to offer my guests, but I do believe the sleigh will be pulled out and rides for everyone.... the table is ready....
and the house begins to fill with family and friends. I've said many times and it is still true... I love my house the best when it's filled with the people I love..... 
conversation, good food and friends that know each other and perhaps only get to visit here.... 
And a few left over gifts for the little ones, just makes the day even better.......
Abi and Beepa catch up on their news....
 and Bruce has discovered that "Baby" has a big bin of toys just for little people. 
 It didn't take people long to throw on their coats and boots and head to the barn when i offered to pull the sleigh out. Duke seems happy to oblige and once he's harnessed, he know his business....
And off we go.... we haven't always been able to do sleighing on New Years... much depends on the weather, but this year it works out perfectly!!! 
We made several loops around the field and different people got to ride and drive!!!! 
This beautiful boy will always hold a special spot in my heart.... 
I loved taking everyone around, but I have to admit, that my favorite ride was with the grands!!!! And I think from those smiles, they loved riding with Baby almost as much!!!
When the rides were done, and the horses taken care of... it was back inside for more food... and then Bob surprised us all and pulled out his fiddle!!!
From there the dancing began!!!! The house was filled with carols and reels and Papa and the the grands had a grand...grand time!!!
It was a real ol fashion celebration....and I kept thinking that "Sweet 16" was already living well up to it's name....

As with all celebrations, the day went by much too quick... but a day that will be remembered well... and as the evening set it... and our guests made their way home... I wish all a very blessed and Happiest of new years!!!!