We Shepherds are about to head off on a Christmas trip to visit family - mine near Chicago, and Ian’s dad’s family on Lake Erie in southern Ontario.  (People have asked how long the drive is.  My answer: with two kids and a big dog in the car, who knows?)

    As much as I’m looking forward to the break, I know it’s always a LOT of work to travel with kids.  We’re not foolish enough to expect a silent road-trip or restful nights of sleep.

But I’m going to do my best to shrug off the stress - and focus on what’s important:

We’ll get to meet my new baby niece, Anna, for the first time.

I’ll get to be a “rock-and roll wife” - watching Ian perform with his band (the Nadas) at the House of Blues in Chicago!

The kids will experience their first Canadian Christmas. 

Santa will come. 

Ian and I will be in the same place - at the same time - for more than a couple hours. (Something that almost never happens with our schedules!)

We feel very lucky to have this chance to re-connect with our wonderful families after a VERY busy and exciting year!  And I feel quite grateful for all my colleagues at RTV who will cover for me while I’m gone.

    I hope to come back with stories to tell.

Merry Christmas, everyone - see you soon!

TS