It started with a kiss—how did it end up like this?

A Christmas gathering, love everywhere, joy and a little flare.

So much laughter, a year’s memories to share,

Now settle in close—we’ve got stories to spare.

The year began with adventure already in bloom,

And somehow I’ve dared to put it all into rhyme and tune.

So sit back steady, don’t worry or fret—

Yes, this poem is proudly Gen AI–ready (you bet).

We started the year huddled in a courtroom row,

Gabe’s law career officially ready to go.

A cold, crisp Brooklyn winter’s day,

A meaningful trip for oaths to say.

We wrapped it up simply—perfectly breezy—

With a memorable lunch at Torizzi.

Then off to the continent, overseas we flew,

Copenhagen and Vienna were calling us too.

Jamie and Judy with Scandic hospitality glow,

Hotdogs, churches, castles—all part of the show.

Then Vienna awaited, where passions were sent—

Pagliacci thundered, sang, cried, and vented intent.

A nudge, an excuse-me, a moment too fast—

It was over before we quite knew what had passed.

Poor Nedda—no escape, no plea—

Opera teaches tragedy efficiently.

While abroad and rolling along on a high,

Leah debuted her journal to a woodland troll nearby.

Then back to TO for a moment, not long,

As Disney and West Coast plans came on strong.

Beach days and rides that soared through the sky,

Star Wars, Space Mountain—oh my, oh my.

Then scattered again to our corners and places,

Graduation season—we were off to the races.

Interviews, curricula, ceremonies in reach,

Doctors in training, Nurse to mend, and teachers to teach.

But first, to the Outer Banks—our beloved retreat,

A place we adore, salty air, sandy feet.

The Vice played softly, a bit edgy and true,

Our final trip there with sweet Reggie too.

Then onward again, degrees nearly complete—

Utah called next, neuroscience and nursing to meet.

Mountains and blue skies, inspections and gear,

Packing and prepping as moves drew near.

Two graduates off to Asia—woohoo!

What a year already… and we weren’t quite through.

Then home for a pause, hearts heavy and sore,

Our dear little Reggie slept forevermore.

A quiet goodbye, love deep and sincere,

There wasn’t a dry eye anywhere near.

Soon after, San Francisco welcomed us warmly,

Berkeley in sunshine—gracious and charmingly.

Redwoods, long hikes, and ice cream divine,

A teacher now ready to help students shine.

Summer rolled on with trips small and grand,

Port Stanley breezes, toes in the sand.

But news weighed heavy—a biopsy sent,

Waiting together with cautious intent.

July brought reunion, laughter, and cheer,

The Busing Bash—what a wonderful year!

Then back to TO for a issue caught in time,

Grateful we noticed the warning sign.

Healing followed, thankfulness grew,

Though Rob’s work world turned hostile too.

Still, Resilient Brilliance pressed bravely along,

As Leah headed west—but not for too long.

Josh planted trees by the thousands each day,

Sam helped plan a trip for Tim Allen (okay!).

Working hard, sweating gallons—no doubt,

So pause for a moment—the affirmation cards are out!

Then Bella Tour flights lifted us high,

Florence in Tuscany drifting by.

Retreats in full force, success on repeat,

Leah’s work flourishing—powerful, sweet.

I tagged along late, the dependable mule,

But paused first to watch Lamborghini and Pagani artisans tool.

Milan, Como—beauty galore,

And trapped on a funicular with a man yelling “mama Mia!” At the door.

Back to Canada—PwC battles galore,

But Jackie stepped in, steady at the core.

Depositions, med school, classrooms too,

Josh graduating, Sam off to Nottingham—world travelers through and through.

Now Queen’s came a calling

Doctor training and Kingston ballin

A swearing in and an oath taken

Kingston was shimmying and shaking

White coats and fort moats 

Kingston a city on the water with lots of boats

One final escape before Claus-time began,

Mexico called—we said “yes, we can.”

Rest, restore, regain our reason,

Now here we are—it’s Christmas season.

So gathered together, let’s hope weather complies…

Wait—should I check the window to Santa see? Might as well I probably have to pee.

Back again, glowing lights on the tree…

Hold on—is that glow from the tree… no wait maybe it’s me?

Warmth and laughter, the food table calls,

Let’s end this poem before gravy spills on the walls.

Merry Christmas! To 2026 we say—

Bring it on world… we’re ready to play 🎄