**As the festive season fills the air with joy and anticipation, the human members of Hope's Therapy Dogs take a moment to reflect on the essence of Christmas.**

**In this special Christmas blog post, Ali, Sarah, Nicola, and Catherine share their unique memories and reflections.**

For Nicola, the anticipation of Christmas Day begins with her children waking up extra early, their excitement palpable as they rush to see if "he" has been. As the family gathers for a quick breakfast, the joyous occasion is toasted with a glass of sherry at 10 am, a tradition that warmly welcomes the day's festivities.

At this moment, a tender nod is shared in remembrance of loved ones who are no longer present - a poignant pause that adds depth and warmth to the day.

With hearts full of love, the family transitions into full festive mode, with the kitchen becoming the bustling heart of activity with food, games and laughter creating cherished memories that will linger long after the decorations are packed away.

With humour and heartwarming moments, Sarah shares her family Christmas traditions. The day begins in a charmingly unconventional manner as she dons her wellies, ready to embark on the first adventure of the day – mucking out Herman the horse! As a special treat (and no doubt very similar to Rudolph) Herman receives extra carrots and Polo mints as his Christmas gift, creating a delightful start to the festivities.

Family breakfast plans are generally a well-intentioned feast of salmon and scrambled eggs; however, the culinary ambitions are usually exchanged for the simple joy of devouring a chocolate selection box or two with her children instead - and what's a festive indulgence without a cheeky Buck's Fizz? It is Christmas after all!

Adding to the charm of the cherished family moments, Sarah recalls her childhood memories of Christmas Eve. Her dad would gather her brothers and her in the lounge, curtains closed, with the candlelit angel decoration gently twirling to Johnny Mathis 'When a Child is Born.' Allowed a little mug of snowball, they would listen quietly to his words.

Her dad would say that this was the true essence behind Christmas and something that she holds on to today.

Catherine's memories paint a picture of familial warmth and excitement. From celebrating her brother's Birthday on Christmas Eve to desperately attempting to stay awake after Midnight Mass to catch a glimpse of Santa, her recollections embody the magic of childhood Christmases. Catherine recalls a vivid memory from the year 1990 - a year she's certain she heard the reindeer land on her roof!

This touch of whimsy encapsulates the pure joy that Christmas brings and finds a place in the hearts of those who believe - Catherine is a believer!

Not forgetting the anticipation of waking up early to see if Santa had eaten the mince pies left out the night before, or arguing with her brothers over who would get to put the baby Jesus into the Nativity scene by the fireplace.

Now, Catherine witnesses the same wide-eyed wonder and excitement in her nieces and nephews and the torch of tradition and magic of Christmas is passed on.

Ali, the driving force behind Hope's Therapy Dogs, reminisces about her childhood Christmas. Her father, a dedicated policeman, would work tirelessly on Christmas Eve night. The magic of Christmas for Ali's family didn't unfold until her father burst through the door on Christmas morning, exclaiming,

"Yo Ho Ho... MERRY CHRISTMAS!"

This joyful tradition, alive with enthusiasm and festive spirit, continues with Ali and her boys even to this day.

Beyond the joyous rituals, Christmas holds a deeper meaning for Ali - it’s a season of hope grounded in the birth of Jesus. "Christmas is about remembering Immanuel… God with us… the birth of a baby who was born to live and die so that humankind could be saved from themselves. It is my driving hope!

I love Christmas because it’s the season of **Hope**!"

These reflections show the variety of experiences that collectively define the true meaning of Christmas. Whether rooted in cherished family traditions and memories or sparked by newfound heartwarming moments, may the season of Hope cast its warm glow upon your families.

However your Christmas Day unfolds, we extend our heartfelt wishes for a joyous and Hopeful Christmas from all of us at Hope’s Therapy Dogs! 🎄🐾