Hi List, I grew up in Millheim in Centre County, and this morning my thoughts returned to my early memories of Christmas there. I wanted to share one special one with you. When I was about seven years old, my Dad packed us all into our old Desoto, and we drove out to the farm of Wally Thompson and his wife Regie (spelling may be off). It was one of those dark, cold, snowy Centre County winter mornings, when your warm breath shows in the cold frosty air. My siblings and I were wrapped up warmly in our snowsuits, boots and gloves, and Dad was wearing that old plaid wool coat I remember so well. When we arrived at the Thompson farm we were greeted by Wally. Regie beckoned us from the door, and we all went inside for hot chocolate. The smells of ham and other goodies filled that warm, friendly, farmhouse kitchen, and I've never tasted a better sugar cookie in my life. But it was too warm to remain inside for very long with our snow gear on, besides, the real fun was just about to begin. Outside waiting for us was a big hay wagon and a team of horses (the snow was too deep for Wally's tractor). My Mom, the southerner, stayed behind with Regie in the warm kitchen, but the rest of us piled into the wagon and off we went. Our goal -- to find the best Christmas tree Wally's farm had to offer! We pulled up to a large field where several possible candidates were standing, and everyone jumped out. The snow was above my knees, but with Dad's help, I waded through it, and found the perfect tree. At least to my young eyes it was perfect. Dad and Wally took their axes and chopped it down, then dragged it back to the wagon. Before long we were all back in the kitchen for one of those big PA Dutch meals that can only be appreciated from a farmhouse kitchen when the weather is cold. Later, Dad and Wally tied the tree to the roof of our old Desoto, and fortified with more of those great sugar cookies, we set out for home, singing carols all the way. That tree was perfect with all it's lights and tinsel! So, this morning, remembering that long ago Christmas, and remembering my Dad, who passed away in 1974, I wanted to wish all of you the kind of special Christmas memories that I'll always cherish! Merry Christmas to you all! Diana Mason