Holiday Greetings from Ontario Visited!

~ A Jolly Holiday Greeting from Ontario Visited and Judi (Scoop) & Gary (Nomad) McWilliams 🎄✨~

Ho Ho Ho, Merry Christmas and Holiday Greetings to all our wonderful friends, followers, and fellow adventurers!

As the holiday season jingles its way into our hearts, we, Scoop and Nomad, your loyal explorers of all things Ontario, wanted to take a moment to sprinkle some holiday cheer your way—complete with laughter, joy, and perhaps a gingerbread cookie or two. (Gary insists he’s only had one… but we all know better.)

This year has been a whirlwind of fairs, festivals, and fabulous adventures. From midways to maple syrup, demolition derbies to dog shows, we’ve experienced the best of what Ontario has to offer, and we couldn’t have done it without YOU. Your enthusiasm and support keep us energized, even when we’re racing against time to catch that last tractor pull before sunset.

As we wind down the year, we find ourselves reflecting on some holiday “lessons” we’ve learned through our travels:

Stay on Santa’s Nice List: Easier said than done, especially when trying to resist the temptation of sneaking an extra butter tart at a holiday market. (No promises, Santa!)

Deck the Halls…and Yourself: We’ve discovered that wearing a sparkly elf hat not only spreads joy but also gets you free samples at local Christmas bazaars. Highly recommended.

Avoid Reindeer Traffic Jams: Especially at Ontario’s many holiday parades. If you see Dasher and Dancer approaching, clear the sleigh lanes.

Stay Warm, But Stylish: Scoop’s discovery of the perfect plaid scarf this fall has become an official Ontario Visited wardrobe staple. Nomad, on the other hand, swears by his “elf-approved” earmuffs.

But above all, we’ve learned the importance of cherishing the moments that make life so special, whether it’s a dazzling Christmas tree lighting ceremony, the sound of carolers in a snowy square, or simply the joy of sharing a laugh with loved ones.

A Few Holiday Wishes for You 

As you cozy up by the fire with a mug of hot cocoa (or a festive glass of mulled wine), here’s what we’re wishing for you this holiday season:

• Endless Joy: May your days be merry and bright and may all your eggnogs be spiked just right.

• Good Health: May you avoid any mishaps under the mistletoe, whether it’s an awkward kiss or a bump on the head.

• Big Smiles: May your holiday selfies rival even Rudolph’s glowing red nose in brilliance.

• A Sense of Adventure: May you find joy in exploring local treasures, from dazzling light displays to hidden cozy cafés.

Safety First, Fun Always! 

While we’re all for embracing the festive chaos, we want to remind everyone to stay safe this holiday season. Whether you’re braving the icy sidewalks on the way to your favorite holiday market, battling mall crowds for that last-minute gift, or trying to hang lights without looking like Clark Griswold, remember: safety first, laughter second (but never forgotten).

And let’s not forget about traveling smart. If you’re hitting the roads to visit friends and family, keep an emergency kit handy. Nothing says “prepared” like a flashlight, some snacks, and maybe a playlist of carol singalongs, just in case you find yourself stuck in a snowy traffic jam.

Here’s to an Amazing 2025! 

As we wave goodbye to 2024, we’re already planning our next year of adventures. From more incredible fairs and markets to festivals and hidden gems, we’re excited to keep exploring and sharing the magic of Ontario with you.

Thank you for making this journey so much fun. Your comments, shares, and enthusiasm light up our days brighter than any Christmas tree!

So, from our family to yours: 

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and all the best for a safe, joyful, and adventure-filled New Year!

Stay merry and bright,

Judi & Gary McWilliams , Ontario Visited 

P.S. If Santa asks, we definitely didn’t eat all the cookies at the last Christmas market… but let’s just say, there might not have been many left. 🎅🎄