Wasn't that a party!

After two cancelled nights in December (our by-laws call for the cancellation of meetings when the temperature with windchill hits -25C), we finally decided that it was a go for last night regardless.

Although the weather agreed, family commitments and a spate of colds prevented a large number of members from attending. So although we were a jolly group, only 11 of us were able to be there. Two others had sent their gifts in for the gift exchange.

Joanne had made two cushions (1" x 1") for all of us and left them on the tables.

Barb S. gave us each these great snowperson printies.

Tina McD. also made each of us a miniature coffee mug marked Miniature Enthusiasts of Edmonton. For some reason I can't upload the picture to the blog right now. I'll try to remember to show it to you later.

Trineke made all of us these cute pins. Very festive!

Bev A. (who was one of those struck down with a cold) made several of these wonderful nativity scenes for, I believe, members of the Executive. Bev is quite new to the club (and miniatures). She is our newsletter editor and has some incredibly innovative ideas.

These three trays of cookies were my exchange gift from Barb S. Best of all - no calories!

Putting on our snowman pins

Trineke's birthday also.

Some of the food!

The punch!

Each year, Joanne reads us a book. This year's was "And  a Porcupine in a Pine Tree" by Helaine Becker.   It's a Canadian take on the Twelve Days of Christmas. You can read the lyrics here. Joanne sang it and the rest of us joined in.

The book is beautifully illustrated and would make a wonderful gift for any child but particularly for those who don't live in Canada.

Some of the gifts:

Tina received this nativity scene, as well as some other things, from Bev.

Corinne M. in Calgary received this lovely teaset from Judy S.

Judy S. received these minis from new member Kyla M.

Barb S. received this lovely set of china but I don't know who it was from.

Sorry but that's all I got pictures of.

The final activity of the evening was the draw for the Christmas trees and ornaments. Each year the club supplies three Christmas trees and members bring in ornaments to decorate them. There was a great selection of ornaments this year and the trees were won by Corinne M., Bev A. and Tina M..

Aside from the absence of many of our fellow miniaturists, it was a wonderful evening and a good time was had by all.

To those of you who were unable to attend, hope you get well soon. We'll see everyone at the meeting on January 17.