XMAS AT THE HOMES

New Zealand Times, Volume LI, Issue 12022, 27 December 1924, Page 11

XMAS AT THE HOMES

VISIT TO N'AI NAI.FATHER CHRISTMAS AND HIS FAIRIES. With all pomp and ceremony Father Christmas paid his visit to the Nai Nai Boys’ Home on Christmas morning, and wa© greeted—not with* frost or snow—but smiling sunshine coming over the hills, just as it knows how to smile on the valley of flowers. The boys were ready for him too, so he had to abandon the chimney idea and enter by the front door. Nevertheless his welcome was none the less warm, and he made everyone happy by going right round and snaking them, by the hand and wishing them all sorts or good things. He then led the way to the classroom, in the centre of which was a gorgeous • Christmas tree, loaded from top to bottom with toys arjd gifts of all sorts ? jittering with spangle® and frost which- might have come from the top of Mount Cook. First his little fairies, a bright little band of them, sang sweetly and were duly cheered by the boys. Then came the great ceremony, Father Christmas, with his venerable beard and attizo handing to each one a present, toys and sweets. How the youngsters cheered through and at the end of the ceremony, and Father Christmas was pleased at their great happiness. Then they cheered for the Rev. Father Walshe, chaplain of the Home, and similar tributes were accorded Hie Eeverend Mother and Sisters in charge, who discharge the duties of matronly care over the kiddies. Hearty thanks were also expressed to the many donors to the special fund for Christmas cheer; and especially to the Commercial Travellers’ Aseocia- j tion for their generous benefaction. Subsequently Father Christmas paid a visit to the Home of Compassion, where his duties were discharged to the twee infants, grown-up children-; and the infirm oases. It was a very happy time, and those who contributed to tne joy thus experienced would have felt amply repaid ’by the happiness so made possible.