Fun & Games at the Children’s Christmas Party

13 December 2015Audrey K, Alex ‘16; Photo by Georgia P, Mack '16

Last Sunday, while most Brentwood students jammed into the library, preparing readily for their end-of-term tests and projects, Brentwood Staff members gathered with their spouses and children to celebrate the annual Children’s Christmas Party in the McNeill Centre. With many student volunteers coming out to help decorate cookies, sign people in, and make marshmallow wreaths, the party was undoubtedly a huge festive success. The McNeill was almost unrecognizable as red and white decorations hung from doorways and mantle places, brightly decorated Christmas trees lit up room corners and, as expected, Santa’s sleigh sat center stage amidst the action. As families began to arrive and children found the cookie-decorating table, a dull roar came echoing from beyond the glass doors that enclosed the festivities. As friends greeted friends, red and white gingerpeople scattered across the room as their parents hurried behind them, trying to usher them to the next activity table. About an hour into the event, the guest of honour arrived. Yes, that’s right, a Christmas magic show took place in the doors of our very own McNeill Center where children gathered in rows to watch and participate in tricks that made Christmas trees disappear, children levitate, and magic snowballs spread Christmas cheer. Many thought the delight would end when the last act of the Magic show was conducted and the magician picked up his tools and left. But they couldn’t have been more wrong: as the magician disappeared, Santa arrived accompanied by carolers and his elves. After photos were taken with Santa and gifts were exchanged, friends and family members all gathered in Crooks Hall for a Christmas dinner before all packed up and headed home just before dark. We’d like to thank everyone for coming out and supporting the party. Also, thanks to all of the student volunteers, lead by Sarah L and Mrs. McLean, who put their own agendas aside to make our staff children feel welcomed and cherished. I’m wishing everyone a very happy holidays and New Year! Audrey K, Alex ‘16

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