We live in Harbour Grace and have 3 grown daughters. One lives nearby with her family, and two live in Nova Scotia. This Christmas they all planned to drive home. Our middle daughter, her husband, 4 year old daughter and new baby boy arrived in mid December Our youngest girl and her partner, who is from BC sand had never spent a Christmas in Newfoundland planned to cross on the 22 and drive across the island on Tibb's Eve. On that morning, we received the call that they were in the bay outside Port aux Basques, but unable to dock due to a mechanical issue. After a few calls and texts it became clear they were being sent back to North Sydney, and possibly rebooked for Christmas Eve night due to an impending wind storm. I must confess to a few unkind words and thoughts about Marine Atlantic and Transport Canada. However, we had to accept that safety was paramount and that at least they were together. However, they made the decision not to repeat the trip and headed back to Halifax. We were to say the least, disappointed. We proceeded to preset a delivery of groceries to their apartment so they would have food in the house when they got back. Christmas Eve and Day was a bit somber but we set about readying for the the big day as we had small children to consider! Meanwhile I was getting updates about plans in Nova Scotia for hikes and dinner with friends, so we had to be contented with that. On Christmas Eve we gathered with extended family at our daughters house and they had placed pictures of our absent girl and her man on poles so they could be virtually present! On Christmas morning I received pictures of the hike and in the afternoon pictures of the gathering they were attending. We were having wonderful time with the family around us as the children were so excited. At supper time I proceeded to the kitchen to make the gravy and will admit that a few tears fell in the pot. Suddenly I hear "Anyone home? Any mummers 'lowd in?" I ran to to the door thinking "how lovely! Mummers to cheer us up!" Grabbing my phone as I go so I can FaceTime with the Nova Scotia couple so they can share the joy. As they passed my husband he felt her cold hand and knew immediately who it was. It took a while for the rest of us to get it. They had us completely fooled! We had a wonderful time throughout the rest of Christmas and New Years.   Submitted By: Gail Downing